The Ecstasy Of St Francis — Sassetta (stefano Di Giovanni)

The Ecstasy of St Francis

Discover Sassetta’s ‘Ecstasy of St Francis,’ a Renaissance masterpiece! This 1437 tempera panel blends Gothic & Florentine styles, rich in symbolism & vibrant color. Explore its beauty at Villa i Tatti.


sassetta (stefano di giovanni) (1392 - 1450)

Stefano di Giovanni (Sassetta) was a pivotal Sienese Renaissance painter (c. 1392-1450). Known for fusing Gothic elegance with Florentine realism, his altarpieces & narrative scenes—like the Miracle of the Eucharist—mark a key transition in Italian a

Villa i Tatti (Settignano, Italy)

Discover Villa i Tatti in Settignano, Italy, Harvard's renowned center for Renaissance art, Italian primitives, Chinese & Islamic collections, and stunning gardens. Explore rich art history and scholarly excellence.

The Ecstasy of St Francis is a renowned painting by the Italian artist Sassetta (Stefano Di Giovanni), created in 1437. This tempera on panel artwork, measuring 190 x 122 cm, is now housed at the Villa i Tatti in Settignano, Italy. The painting depicts a moment of intense spiritual ecstasy experienced by St Francis, the founder of the Franciscan order.

Artistic Style and Composition

The painting showcases Sassetta's unique style, which blends elements of the Sienese School with influences from the decorative Gothic style and the realism of contemporary Florentine artists like Masaccio. The composition is characterized by a sense of balance and harmony, with St Francis at the center, surrounded by angels and other figures. The use of color is rich and varied, with a palette that includes blues, reds, yellows, and greens, adding depth and vibrancy to the scene.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The painting is filled with symbolic elements, including the aureole surrounding St Francis, which represents his divine connection. The angels and other figures in the painting are also imbued with symbolic meaning, representing various virtues and aspects of the spiritual journey. The painting can be interpreted as a representation of the transformative power of faith and the human experience of spiritual ecstasy. The Ecstasy of St Francis is a masterpiece of Renaissance art, showcasing Sassetta's unique style and artistic vision. The painting continues to inspire and captivate audiences today, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic traditions of 15th-century Italy.
The Ecstasy of St Francis is available as a handmade oil painting reproduction on ArtsDot.com, allowing art lovers to bring this beautiful work into their own homes.