St. Francis of Assisi with lamb

 

Original:     Resides in Salem, VA

 

Reproductions:     Print on painted wood

 

Size:      8 x 10 inches

 

Gold:      23.5 K Gold leaf halo (original only)

 

Style:      Contemporary with Italian and Russian Influence

 

Date of original creation:      2008

 

 

 

Description

 

“St. Francis of Assisi with stigmata and lamb.” New, original acrylic painting by the hand of Rebecca LaChance. The face of St. Francis was inspired by a painting done by one of his contemporaries. Staining colors are laid down as washes over each other to produce a luminous icon. All original icons reflect the humanity and the human hand that painted them; they contain all the brush marks and hallmarks of the painter’s style and skill.

 

The icon story

 

The lamb laying against his left chest is a strong reminder that Francis held the Lamb of God so closely in his heart that he developed the stigmata in sympathy with his Lord. Additionally, the lamb represents his affinity with animals. His robes are ruddy, threadbare, and yet luminous.  These effects remind the viewer that Francis lived in material poverty yet reflected the love and glory of his Lord.

 

The value and purpose of an icon

 

The value of an icon lies not in its being beautiful in itself – in its appearance as a beautiful object, but in the fact that it depicts Beauty – the Beauty of the acquired likeness of God.

 

The task of the icon is not to provoke human emotion but to guide all the faculties of human nature toward its own transfiguration.

 

About the author and this icon

 

Rebecca always maintains an internal dialogue/prayer while translating the icon onto the board. While painting St. Francis she felt turmoil about family dynamics.  LaChance prayed that St. Francis would guide her to see the people involved just as he saw and loved his contemporaries – as the visible love of God.

 

This is the second version of St. Francis that Rebecca has painted.  The first was a birthday gift to her mother in 2007.  Her mother is so touched by the icon that she does not want to share it.  Thus, to honor her mother’s request, Rebecca altered the design of the second St. Francis icon.

 

Satisfaction Guaranteed

 

LaChance feels strongly that the purchase of an icon is a spiritual decision for the buyer.  It is extremely important to her that all icons arrive in pristine condition and the buyer is supremely satisfied.  Thus, satisfaction is guaranteed on all icon purchases.  No questions asked – just return the icon in original packing within 7 days of purchase and your money will be refunded – less shipping.  You can buy with confidence!

 

        St. Francis 8 x 10 reproduction on painted wood - $40.00