Artists reveal the authentic visage of St. Francis through their creations
In the heart of Italy, the impact of Francis of Assisi's "Canticle of the Creatures" can still be felt, as it continues to inspire artists and shape the landscape of religious art.
The Madonna in Perugia received a new lease of life, thanks to Gentile da Fabriano, who adorned it with a lively carpet of flowers, inspired by the "Canticle of the Creatures." This poetic text, penned in 1225, is a significant milestone in Italian literature, as it was the first to personify natural elements.
The autographed Chartula of Friar Francis, a testament to his life and teachings, is housed in the Capitular Hall of the Palazzo della Minerva in Rome. Here, it shares the spotlight with works by Cimabue and Perugino, offering a glimpse into the profound influence of Francis' ideologies.
The "Canticle of the Creatures" is more than just a historical relic. It is a daily blessing that becomes real, a reminder for us, after 800 years, to bless, to say well: "bless me, my Lord, and give thanks, and serve them with great humility." This familiar touch gives a new gaze to artists, encouraging them to look at nature with a fresh perspective.
The influence of the "Canticle of the Creatures" can be seen in the Chapel of the Priors in Perugia, where Benedetto Bonfigli gives voice to clouds and wind, a result of the text's profound impact. The Basilica of Assisi, begun in the same year Francis was canonized, also bears the mark of this revolutionary text.
The leadership over the direction of Saint Francis' iconography after his death was taken by the Franciscan Order itself. They guided the artistic and devotional representations based on his life and spirituality, leading to the proliferation of depictions of Francis, often with significant licenses, especially regarding the stigmata.
The "Canticle of the Creatures" also played a crucial role in the painting of canvases and panels. Its revolutionary ideas triggered a revolution in the history of art, according to Costantino D'Orazio. The exhibition seeking to depict the face of Friar Francis, the author of the "Canticle of the Creatures," is a testament to this enduring influence.
Pope Francis' encyclical, Laudato si', also reminds us of the praise of nature in the "Canticle of the Creatures." As we continue to navigate the complexities of our world, the teachings of Francis of Assisi, encapsulated in his "Canticle of the Creatures," offer a timeless guide for harmony and respect for nature.
