Description
The painting St Bonaventure Enters the Franciscan Order by Francisco De Herrera is a masterpiece of Spanish Baroque featuring a dramatic and moving composition. The painting shows Saint Bonaventure of Bagnoregio kneeling before Saint Francis of Assisi as he enters the Franciscan order.
The artistic style of the work is typical of the Spanish Baroque, with attention to detail and exaggerated realism in the figures. The composition is carefully balanced, with Saint Francis at the center and the other characters arranged around him in a symmetrical fashion. The lighting is dramatic, with bright light highlighting the faces and hands of the characters.
Color is another prominent aspect of this painting. The dark, earthy tones in the characters' clothing contrast with the bright light that surrounds them. The details in the clothing and objects, such as books and sceptres, are painted with great precision and realism.
The story behind the painting is interesting. It is believed that it was commissioned by the Franciscan Order of Seville in the 17th century, and was originally located in the chapel of the convent of San Francisco. The work was restored in the 20th century and is now in the Museum of Fine Arts in Seville.
Also, there is a little known aspect of the painting which is its symbolism. The figure of Saint Francis is represented with a cross in his left hand and a book in his right, symbolizing his faith and knowledge. Bonaventure, on the other hand, carries a book in her left hand and her right hand is on her heart, symbolizing her love and devotion to God.
In summary, the painting St Bonaventure Enters the Franciscan Order by Francisco De Herrera is a masterpiece of Spanish Baroque featuring dramatic composition, exaggerated realism, and attention to detail in colors and lighting. Its history and symbolism make this work an interesting and significant piece of art history.