The Stigmatization of St Francis, miniature on a leaf probably from a Book of Hours [France (Paris), c.1500-20]

single leaf, 164x102mm, vellum, with a full-page miniature presumably on the verso facing a prayer to St Francis on a recto in a Book of Hours, the reverse blank, some pigment loss especially near the lower right corner, the edges of the leaf discoloured through contact with the card mount, framed

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Another leaf with a miniature of Sts Francis and Catherine is so similar in terms of size, composition and style, that it probably belonged to the same manuscript (Philadelphia Museum of Art, 1958-151-4).

In 1224 Francis of Assisi was on retreat on Mount Alverna with his companion Thomas of Celano: Thomas reported that Francis saw a vision of a seraph with his arms outspread and feet together, in the shape of a cross, and while contemplating it marks appeared like those of Christ at his Crucifixion, on his hands, feet, and side, where they remained until his death two years later. The building in the background of the miniature is perhaps intended to represent the chapel of the Portiuncula, where the Franciscan order was founded, or Francis’s church at Assisi itself.