Morse with Saint Francis of Assisi Receiving the Stigmata

Morse with Saint Francis of Assisi Receiving the Stigmata

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Worn as a clasp to close a priestly garment, this morse must have been created for an official of the Franciscan order. Despite their vows of poverty, Franciscans often possessed lavish liturgical vestments. Displaying the moment that Francis received the stigmata (marks on the body corresponding to Jesus’ crucifixion wounds), the nocturnal setting distinguishes this scene and heightens its drama.

Medieval Art and The Cloisters

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Morse with Saint Francis of Assisi Receiving the StigmataMorse with Saint Francis of Assisi Receiving the StigmataMorse with Saint Francis of Assisi Receiving the StigmataMorse with Saint Francis of Assisi Receiving the StigmataMorse with Saint Francis of Assisi Receiving the Stigmata

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world. Displayed in both The Met Fifth Avenue and in the Museum's branch in northern Manhattan, The Met Cloisters, the collection encompasses the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome in the fourth century to the beginning of the Renaissance in the early sixteenth century. It also includes pre-medieval European works of art created during the Bronze Age and early Iron Age.