(Bishop of Lipari from 1753 to 1769)
The Bishop, in Dominican habit, is portrayed seated on a throne while holding a small scroll with his left hand. Leaning on a table are his episcopal insignia, while in the background, a drawn curtain allows a glimpse of a column on a plinth.
The painting, uncertain in its perspective rendering, appears to be the work of a modest local painter.
In addition to being a charitable person, Bishop De Francisco was also a very enterprising spirit: he built the bell tower of Lipari Cathedral and oversaw the restoration of the ancient bishop’s palace within the walls of the upper town; he also authorized the construction of the church of Our Lady of the Rosary at the Well, which went alongside those of St. Peter and St. Joseph for the spiritual care of those who lived in the lower town. He also commissioned the choir organ, which still exists today, and the cathedral’s great bell, as well as a large number of precious silver objects for liturgical celebrations. The Chapter of Canons, as a sign of gratitude, erected a half-bust-portrait of him above the door of the Cathedral sacristy.
