In this piece, Bellini depicts St. Francis’ spiritual
retreat. The tan color of his humble habit fits harmoniously with the
landscape, showing the saint as a part of God’s earthly creation rather than
one set apart.
His well-known love of animals is also celebrated with
the presence of a donkey, crane, hare, and other animals. The donkey is thought
to represent humility, while the skull on St. Francis’ desk signifies
mortality.
Parts of the painting, including the leafless bush in
the painting’s center, spring on the far left, and St. Francis’ shoes, left
behind, recall Moses encounter with the Burning Bush and the conflict at
Meribah.
“Where there is charity and wisdom, there is neither fear nor ignorance.”
“Where there is charity and wisdom, there is neither fear nor ignorance.”
~St. Francis
