Compagnia di San Francesco Altarpiece, predella – Saint Francis Receives the Stigmata Fra Angelico (1400-1455)

The composition presents a pivotal moment steeped in religious significance. A central figure, seemingly Christ, is depicted suspended within a radiant halo of light emanating from the upper center of the frame. The form is largely obscured by this luminosity, yet the suggestion of outstretched arms and wings hints at a divine presence descending upon the scene.
Below, two figures are positioned on either side of a rocky landscape. Both men are clad in similar brown robes, indicative of their shared religious affiliation. One figure kneels with raised hands, his face tilted upwards in an expression of awe or supplication. The other sits, his head bowed and hands covering his eyes, seemingly overwhelmed by the intensity of the celestial event unfolding before him.
The landscape itself is rendered with a deliberate simplicity. Jagged rock formations dominate the middle ground, creating a sense of enclosure and emphasizing the isolation of the scene. A small structure, possibly a dwelling or chapel, sits atop one of the hills in the background, suggesting a human presence observing this sacred occurrence from afar. The vegetation at the base of the rocks is rendered with delicate detail, providing a contrast to the starkness of the stone.
The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, ochres, and greens – which contribute to the overall sense of humility and austerity. The intense gold light emanating from Christ’s form provides a striking visual counterpoint, drawing the viewers eye directly to the divine manifestation.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of faith, suffering, and revelation. The kneeling figure embodies active devotion and receptiveness to divine grace, while the seated figure represents the limitations of human understanding in the face of profound spiritual experience. The rocky terrain can be interpreted as a symbol of hardship and trial, reflecting the challenges faced by those who seek communion with the divine. The inclusion of the distant structure suggests that this event is not merely personal but also witnessed and acknowledged within a broader community of believers.