Dom Gregoire Tarrisse, superieur general de la Congregation de Saint-Maur 1605 - 1650

Jean Morin etched this portrait of Dom Gregoire Tarrisse, a superior general of the Congregation de Saint-Maur. Observe the somber monastic robes, a powerful symbol of renunciation and spiritual dedication. This visual motif appears across centuries, from early Christian art to Renaissance depictions of saints. The shaved head, or tonsure, signifies a detachment from worldly vanity, echoing similar practices in Eastern spiritual traditions. Consider how the act of covering oneself has been charged with shifting, contradictory meanings through time. Though the robe may signal humility, it simultaneously bestows authority. The careful rendering of Tarrisse's features evokes a sense of gravitas, of worldly experience tempered by spiritual commitment. This resonates with archetypes of the wise elder found in diverse cultures, engaging our collective memory of venerable figures. Note the evolution of meaning embedded in simple garments and gestures – ever resurfacing, transforming, yet eternally potent.