Series on the Life of st. Francis. Workshop of Basilio de Santa Cruz, c. 1670-1680. Oil on cloth, 192 x 289 cm.
In a canopy-covered bed in a luxurious room of the period, Doņa Picha, St. Francis’ mother, is
| "Birth of St. Francis." Series on the Life of st. Francis. Workshop of Basilio de Santa Cruz, c. 1670-1680. Oil on cloth, 192 x 289 cm. In a canopy-covered bed in a luxurious room of the period, Doņa Picha, St. Francis’ mother, is |
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unable to give birth to her child. She must move to a humble manger for this event to occur, like the Virgin Mary, as is shown in a little scene inset behind. At one side one sees the Devil, furious at the birth of the child. The artist constantly follows the similarities between the life of the humble St. Francis and that of Christ, a theme much loved by Franciscan chroniclers. The colors are brilliant and provide a delightful local touch by placing the scene in 17th century Cuzco.
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