Franciscus ontvangt de stigmata

About this artwork

height 411 mm x width 542 mm

Art Historical Context

Cornelis Cort's *Franciscus ontvangt de stata* (Francis Receives the Stigmata), engraving from 1602, captures pivotal moment in Christian mysticism: Saint Francis of Assisi receiving the wounds of Christ a vision on Mount La Verna in 1224. This Dutch-titled work reflects the enduring popularity of Franciscan iconography in early modern Europe, where such scenes reinforced Catholic devotion amid the Counter-Reformation's emphasis on sensory spirituality. Measuring an impressive 411 mm high by 542 mm wide, this large-scale engraving showcases the medium's power for intricate detail and tonal depth. Cort, a skilled reproductive engraver from the Antwerp tradition, employed fine burin lines to convey drama, light, and ethereal figures—hallmarks of Northern Renaissance printmaking that allowed affordable dissemination of sacred art to pilgrims and collectors. As a product of the early 17th century, the print bridges late Renaissance precision with emerging Baroque intensity, inviting viewers to contemplate Francis's transformative ecstasy. Its survival highlights engraving's role in preserving devotional imagery for generations of museum-goers.

About the Artist

Cornelis Cort · 1533–1578

Comment on works: copper engraver; engraver; etcher