The saint is depicted leaning on a boulder, in a state of mystical ecstasy following his meditation on death. That meditation is symbolized by the skull, cross and book. He is comforted by a musician angel, as is told in the book The Little Flowers of Saint Francis (Part II, second consideration).

This work is from the artist's second period in Antwerp, where he lived from 1627 to 1632 before leaving for England. The style combines the plastic fluidity he learned in Italy with the dramatic tension from his own religious paintings.

The painting was acquired by Felipe IV at the auction of the belongings of King Charles I of England.