Franciscan San Damiano Sterling Silver Crucifix Medal | HMH

San Damiano Crucifix

The San Damiano Crucifix, a notable Romanesque cross, represents the core mission of St. Francis of Assisi. Tradition holds that during prayer before this crucifix, Francis received a divine mandate to "rebuild my Church," signifying the start of his spiritual mission and the founding of the Franciscan Order.

The crucifix centers on Jesus Christ, portrayed standing upright to signify strength and triumph over death, with his bright white figure sharply contrasting the darker surrounding tones. Above him, the Latin inscription "Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews" highlights his divine authority. The cross presents five principal witnesses: on the left, the Virgin Mary and St. John the Evangelist; on the right, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and a centurion. Mary and Mary Magdalene express deep sorrow, shown with hands on their cheeks. Six angels occupy the ends of the crossbar, awestruck by the crucifixion. At the base, figures represent Umbria’s patrons, including St. Damian and St. Michael.