The Basilica of St Francis

Death of Saint Galgano

The second painting, made in the mid-seventeenth century by a Sienese artist close to Deifebo Burbarini for the Tommasi chapel, represents the Death of San Galgano (1150-1181). San Galgano was a medieval knight who, after a dissolute life, converted to Christianity after the death of his father and two mystical experiences which took place near the hill of Montesiepi in the Chiusdino area. The Archangel Michael, equipped with swords and armour, materializes in the sky. According to the legend, the Archangel appeared in a dream to Galgano, inviting him to join the Celestial Army. The late knight is lying in the middle of the scene surrounded by various figures, some of them dressed as clergymen. The building that appears in the background is probably the abbey founded by the Saint at Montesiepi. The sword placed in the rock by the Saint at the time of his conversion emerges from behind the corpse.