Saint Francis Preaching to the Birds by Giotto (Interpretation and Analysis)

Saint Francis Preaching to the Birds
Source: Medium

Although most people are acquainted with the masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance (after all, the Mona Lisa is certainly the most famous painting in the world), comparatively few are familiar with the pieces of art that started the Renaissance movement. The Italian painter Giotto was among the first artists to experiment with elements of the Renaissance style, and his work influenced countless generations of artists.

This piece, entitled Saint Francis Preaching to the Birds, depicts Saint Francis of Assisi—the patron saint of animals—preaching to a flock of birds about the love of God. It was a fairly popular subject for Christian artists of the time, made popular by an account of his life entitled the Little Flowers of Saint Francis. While it is a touching and memorable scene in its own right, Giotto’s approach to it is particularly beautiful. 

"My sweet little sisters, birds of the sky, you are bound to heaven, to God, your Creator. In every beat of your wings and every note of your songs, praise him. He has given you the greatest of gifts, the freedom of the air."

- Excerpt from Saint Francis' Sermon to the Birds

Here, we see Saint Francis and another monk standing alone against a background of gold leaf. A flock of birds—painted with meticulous detail—cluster around their feet, gazing up at Saint Francis with rapt attention. While we do not see the sense of depth that is common in Renaissance art, hints at the Renaissance movement are present in the painting. There is a sense of proportionality and realism here that is often absent from Medieval art. Furthermore, the bodies of the monks and the birds are clearly three-dimensional, an indication of the coming obsession with space and perspective that characterized the Renaissance.

Giotto’s work occupies a unique place in art history. He is often regarded as one of the first artists of the Renaissance, and, as such, his paintings form a bridge between the Medieval and Renaissance periods. The blending of these two styles is emblematic of a shifting European worldview. As such, Giotto’s painting stands alone, a unique snapshot of a transitional moment in Western history.

Disclaimer: I’m not an art historian or an expert on this topic. The above is my opinion, based on my interpretation of my foreknowledge of art and history. If I’ve done any additional research, I’ll note it above.