The Vision of Saint Francis, kneeling at right, receiving the Christ child from the Virgin Mary (1617–20, Met-Objekt 1145)
Original title: The Vision of Saint Francis, kneeling at right, receiving the Christ child from the Virgin Mary
kurzbeschreibung
Between 1617 and 1620, Michel Lasne produced the engraving 'The Vision of Saint Francis.' The print shows the kneeling saint to whom Mary presents the Christ Child. This vertical format is rendered as a finely worked copperplate engraving.
Description
On the right, Saint Francis kneels, opposite him the Virgin Mary holds the Christ Child. The child reaches out toward the saint. Angels and clouds in the background suggest the heavenly realm. Another kneeling figure and a man with raised hands complete the picture. The arrangement feels symmetrical, with the kneeling man and the child forming the center. The monochrome rendering with subdued light emphasizes the religious seriousness of the subject.
Context
Michel Lasne, a French engraver, became known primarily for his reproductive engravings after major painters. The sheet was made during the Baroque period, when religious subjects were widespread. The layout draws on iconographic patterns of Francis's visions that were popular in the 17th century.
Impact
The precise linework and the calm, symmetrical arrangement create a devotional mood. The muted contrasts direct the gaze to the encounter between the saint and the Christ Child. This results in an intimate, spiritual atmosphere.
Technique
For this engraving, lines were incised into a copper plate and then printed. The process allows for precise details and fine shading, visible in the garments and faces. The sheet measures approximately 36 × 22.3 cm (plate) and was printed on paper.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)