Portrait Of A Monk Of The Benedictine Order, Holding A Skull 

This portrait by Flemish Baroque artist Anthony van Dyck depicts a Benedictine monk holding a skull. The memento mori (reminder of death) theme was popular in 17th century art. The monk's serious expression, the skull, and the dark background all serve to emphasize the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death. This painting, likely a commissioned portrait, is a fine example of van Dyck's mastery of oil painting, capturing realistic detail and a sense of somber contemplation.