The artwork, titled “Portrait of a Carthusian,” was created by the artist Petrus Christus in 1446. It is executed using oil on wood and falls within the Northern Renaissance art movement. The dimensions of the artwork are 21.6 by 29.2 cm, and it is classified as a portrait. The artwork is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) in New York City, New York, USA.
The artwork portrays a Carthusian monk, depicted with meticulous attention to detail typical of Northern Renaissance art. The subject is set against a rich, dark red background that enhances the solemn and contemplative mood of the portrait. The monk’s white robe contrasts sharply with the dark tones, emphasizing his serene and introspective expression. A small detail of a fly resting on the bottom edge serves as an example of the artist’s skill in creating realistic, lifelike elements. The portrait captures both the physical likeness and the spiritual essence of the Carthusian monk, embodying the contemplative and austere nature of monastic life.
