Lot number 2574 - Auction 142
KLEINE IKONE MIT DEM HEILIGEN FRANZ VON PAOLA

A SMALL ICON SHOWING ST. FRANCIS OF PAOLA Veneto-Cretan, 17th century Tempera on wood panel. Executed against a golden background. The halo ornately punched. 18.3 x 12.7 cm. Francis of Paola (1416-1507) was an Italian monk and the founder of the Order of Minims, a religious order focused on humility, penance, and charity. Born in Paola, Calabria, he was known for his ascetic lifestyle and deep spirituality. Francis was credited with performing miracles, including healing the sick and even crossing the sea on his cloak. He became a spiritual advisor to King Louis XI of France in his final years. Canonized in 1519, Francis of Paola is venerated as the patron saint of sailors and fishermen, symbolizing humility and devotion to God.