The Madonna and Child with Saint Francis

In the present work, Francesco de Mura depicts an intimate and tender scene of the Madonna and Child visited by Saint Francis of Assisi. The Madonna, with arms extended, embraces Christ who is seated on her lap. Saint Francis kneels humbly before the holy pair, eyes downcast, gently touching Christ's foot. In a gesture mirroring that of his mother, Christ reaches forward compassionately towards St. Francis. The subtle yet emotional connection between the figures is masterfully described by the artist.

Similar works by de Mura depicting the Madonna and Child in oil on copper can be found in the Palacio Real, Madrid.