Saint Francis of Assisi Icon Value Guide

This 2015 hand-painted icon from the United States captures the spiritual essence of Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and nature. It is a highly collectible piece of modern religious art that utilizes traditional gold leaf techniques to depict the saint's iconic connection with birds.

What affects the value of Saint Francis of Assisi Icon?

• The quality and intricacy of the hand-painted details, particularly the facial features and the rendering of the birds.
• The physical condition of the wood and the preservation of the gold leaf halo without significant flaking or tarnishing.
• Market demand for contemporary religious icons produced within the United States.
• The provenance and documentation confirming its 2015 creation date and origin.

How to Identify Saint Francis of Assisi Icon?

• Verify the presence of genuine gold leaf on the halo, which should exhibit a distinct metallic luster compared to gold paint.
• Examine the wood substrate for signs of hand-craftsmanship consistent with 2015 American production.
• Look for the specific iconographic detail of Saint Francis preaching to birds, a hallmark of this particular devotional design.
• Check for the artist's signature or studio mark often found on the reverse or lower edge of US-made icons.

History of Saint Francis of Assisi Icon

Saint Francis of Assisi is one of the most venerated religious figures in history, known for his devotion to poverty, nature, and animals. Icons, like this one, are sacred images used in Christian tradition, particularly in Eastern Orthodoxy and Catholicism, to aid in spiritual contemplation and veneration. Artists through the centuries have depicted Saint Francis with birds, reflecting stories of his profound connection to the natural world and his ability to preach to animals.