SAINT JOAN OF ARC

Saint Joan of Arc, born around 1412 in Domrémy, France, was a peasant girl who claimed to receive divine visions from saints such as Michael the Archangel, Catherine of Alexandria, and Margaret of Antioch. These voices instructed her to support Charles VII and help drive the English from France during the Hundred Years’ War. Despite her youth and lack of military training, Joan convinced Charles to let her lead an army, and she became a pivotal figure in the siege of Orléans in 1429. Her leadership and faith inspired French troops and shifted the course of the war. After this success, she escorted Charles to Reims for his coronation, affirming the legitimacy of his kingship, which she believed was her divine mission.

In 1430, Joan was captured by the Burgundians, who allied with the English. She was handed over to the English, put on trial by an ecclesiastical court in Rouen, and accused of heresy, witchcraft, and wearing male clothing. The trial was politically motivated and deeply flawed. She was condemned and burned at the stake in 1431 at the age of 19. Twenty-five years later, a retrial ordered by the Pope found her innocent and declared her a martyr. In 1920, Joan was canonized by Pope Benedict XV.

She is now a national heroine of France and a Catholic saint, known for her courage, deep faith, and devotion to God’s call. Often portrayed in armor with a sword or a banner bearing the names of Jesus and Mary, Joan of Arc stands as a powerful symbol of divine purpose, resistance to injustice, and sanctified bravery.

16”x20” acrylic on wood. 
Prayerfully made by Stephen Hotchkiss, if unavailable please inquire about having a similar painting made.