Saint Francis of Paola with skull

The sculpture depicts St. Francis of Paola, the venerated hermit and founder of the Order of Minims, who lived in the 15th century. The work presents the saint in a contemplative pose, with a skull placed at his feet. This iconographic arrangement, typical of post-Tridentine sacred art, symbolises meditation on the transience of earthly life and the importance of the spiritual dimension.The saint is depicted wearing his characteristic habit, an emblem of humility and devotion. His expression reflects a deep spiritual concentration, while his gaze seems to be turned upwards, in contrast with the skull at his feet.The presence of the skull on the ground accentuates the saint's detachment from worldly concerns, symbolising his elevated state of contemplation. This representation emphasises the theme of 'memento mori', inviting the observer to reflect on the transience of earthly existence and the importance of cultivating spiritual values.St Francis of Paola is commemorated by the Catholic Church on 2 April, the date of his death in 1507. In some places, especially in Calabria, where the saint was born, the feast can also be celebrated on other dates, such as 2 April or 27 March.