Portrait of a Carthusian Monk, c. 1715

expand_more

Oil on canvasexpand_more

Gift of Dr. Alfred Baderexpand_more  68.11

Jean Restout II specialized in religious subjects, producing work that found great favor with France’s monasteries. This vivid image of a monk is among several early paintings by Restout depicting members of the Carthusian order and its founder, Saint Bruno. The reclusive Carthusians, recognized by their shaved heads and hooded white clothing, lived in solitude and poverty, copying books and contemplating the contents. This man’s identity is unknown. The delicate modulation of light across his face reveals his wrinkled brow and five o’clock shadow. Restout’s skillful modeling of the hands and white habit makes them appear tangible.

Explore

Adopt A Painting

Details
Title
Portrait of a Carthusian Monk
Artist Life
1692–1768
Role
Artist
Accession Number
68.11
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know

Zoom in on the left to the detail you'd like to save. Click 'Save detail' and wait until the image updates. Right click the image to 'save image as' or copy link, or click the image to open in a new tab.