GHIRLANDAIO, Domenico
(b. 1449, Firenze, d. 1494, Firenze)

Trial by Fire before the Sultan

1483-85
Fresco
Santa Trinita, Florence

This scene is in the tympanum on the right wall.

St Francis appeared before the Sultan in order to prove the strength of his faith and the power of his God. He is prepared to walk barefoot through a blazing fire for his faith. The bearded Muslim scholars or religious leaders on the left do not appear to be prepared to venture the same for their faith.

It should be noted that the stories of the cycle, which are higher up and further from view, were probably left to his assistants: the Renunciation of Worldly Goods, the Trial by Fire before the Sultan and the Stigmata.