Painting of Holy Men
Not on view
Meticulous articulation of shadows, neck folds, and bone structure reflects the artist’s efforts to depict the individuality of the men standing near each other. While we do not know their identities, their nimbi (halos) and the eta symbol (H) on their clothing suggest that they were Christian holy men, perhaps martyrs or monks. Early Christians aspired to the good life through good deeds, thoughtful contemplation, and moral virtue. For decades, this artwork hung in the entryway of Nanette Kelekian’s apartment on the Upper East Side. This display, with the textile in its original collector’s frame, is unusual, but it represents a moment in the life of the object.
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This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.
