Conventuel, 1862 Hand-Colored Lithograph of a Conventual Franciscan Friar

Conventuel, 1862 Hand-Colored Lithograph of a Conventual Franciscan Friar

This 1862 hand-colored lithograph illustrates a Conventuel, or Conventual Franciscan Friar, seated at a desk, deeply engrossed in reading and writing. The friar is depicted in a traditional black habit, symbolizing humility and dedication to scholarly and spiritual pursuits. The desk is adorned with books, papers, and a candlestick, highlighting the friar's commitment to study, contemplation, and clerical duties.

The Conventual Franciscans are a branch of the Franciscan Order, founded by Saint Francis of Assisi in the 13th century. Unlike the more ascetic friars of the Observant branch, the Conventual Franciscans emphasize intellectual endeavors, pastoral care, and community life within urban convents. Today, the Conventual Franciscans are present worldwide, known for their contributions to education, missionary work, and theological study.

This lithograph, part of the *Album ou Collection Complète et Historique des Costumes de la Cour de Rome*, was created by the artist G. Perugini. It captures the essence of the friar’s scholarly life, blending artistic precision with historical context. An exceptional piece for collectors of antique religious prints, Franciscan history, or monastic art.

Translation of Introduction Text:

A powerful interest is attached to the name of Rome, an even more profound interest to the name of Christ. Rome, through its genius, the vast intelligence of its warriors, orators, and legislators, prepared the cradle where Catholicism would be born, grow, develop, and establish itself. The history of Catholicism is the history of this great and glorious city above all others.

Virgil, in a truly prophetic verse, said: "Tu regere imperio populos, Romane, memento." This prophecy has seen the most noble, illustrious, and glorious developments, all conspiring for the eternal city's glory: its history, arts, monuments, and the religion at its core. Yet no other city offers such a collection, from the monuments of Augustus to those of Sixtus V and Leo XII, from pagan temples to saints' tombs and martyrs' shrines. This union of grandeur is further illustrated daily by the magnificence of Catholic rites.

With this album, we present the splendid costumes of the Papal dignitaries and the humble attire of religious orders. These costumes were inspired by the traditions handed down through centuries and were designed with unique precision by the talented artist G. Perugini.

List of Other Engravings in the Book (English Translation):

1. The Pope in Full Ceremony

2. Sovereign Pontiff Celebrating Mass

3. His Holiness Receiving Visitors

4. Cardinal of the Order of Bishops

5. Cardinal Priest

6. Cardinal Deacon

7. Cardinal in Choir Dress

8. Cardinal in Mozzetta

9. Cardinal in City Habit

10. Bishop in Pontifical Attire

11. Greek Catholic Bishop

12. Syrian Bishop

13. Armenian Bishop

14. Keeper of the Relics

15. Prelate in Minor Robes

16. Prelate in Grand Mantle

17. Canon Regular

18. Canon Ordinary

19. Secret Chamberlain

20. Master of Ceremonies

21. Discalced Carmelite Monk

22. Passionist Monk

23. Discalced Monk

24. Trinitarian Monk

25. Piarist Brother

26. Augustinian Monk

27. Cistercian Monk

28. Sylvestrine Monk

29. Barnabite Monk

30. Canon Regular of St. Salvator

31. Benedictine Monk of Monte Cassino

32. Hermit

33. Minor Cleric Regular

34. Conventual Franciscan Friar (this item is Plate 68)

... (Full list includes 80 titles; available upon request)

This lithograph is a captivating portrayal of Franciscan life, perfect for collectors of monastic art, Catholic history, and antique religious prints.