In the context of Miracles of St. Francis Xavier (Rubens), explain the Hindu Idol of the Interpretation.
The figure that wears a crown is interpreted as a Hindu idol. Rubens drew this figure based on the information he received from sculptures and travel accounts about Indian culture. Another way Rubens received information about Indian culture was through goods from India that were traded in Antwerp. Specifically, the idol was based on the Western interpretation of Indian gods. In the Western interpretation, Hindu idols were shown as demonic figures. The figure has an open mouth on its body because this concept in Western art represented the devil. The figure's position and St. Francis Xavier's gesture show that St. Francis Xavier is directing the heavenly vision that is attacking the figure. This interpretation follows St. Francis Xavier's time in India in which he persuaded people to follow the Church and get rid of any depictions of their previous religion.
Francis Xavier India Antwerp Hindu St. Francis Xavier idol