Praying Monk 1704 - 1767

"Praying Monk" is an anonymous oil painting from 1704-1767 housed at the Statens Museum for Kunst in Denmark. The artwork depicts a monk, cloaked in a dark robe, in prayer, with his hands clasped together and his gaze directed upwards toward a cross, which is illuminated by a beam of light from above. This religious oil painting is a great example of Baroque style, and uses chiaroscuro to enhance its emotional effect. It is an evocative piece of artwork that explores themes of faith and devotion.