Focus on Miracles of St. Francis Xavier (Rubens) and explore the Interpretation.
It is suggested that the setting of the painting focuses on St. Francis Xavier's missionary actions in Asia. These actions caused people to spread word about his miracles. Researchers know that Rubens received information about the geography and history of Asian culture from Theodore de Bry. Rubens used this information and information he knew about European culture, which resulted in a setting that combined aspects of both cultures. It is known that the baby being held by the mother symbolizes the event when St. Francis Xavier resurrected a baby from drowning in India. In the middle of the painting, there are men in Korean outfits who symbolize people who initially questioned St. Francis Xavier's ability to perform his miracles. They were eventually convinced of St. Francis Xavier's ability.
Francis Xavier India Korean St. Francis Xavier Asia Theodore de Bry