Moine de Cîteaux, 1862 Hand-Colored Lithograph of a Cistercian Monk

Moine de Cîteaux, 1862 Hand-Colored Lithograph of a Cistercian Monk

This 1862 hand-colored lithograph depicts a Moine de Cîteaux, or Cistercian monk, dressed in the traditional white habit with a hood, symbolic of purity and simplicity. The figure holds a book in one hand, representing the scholarly and contemplative traditions of the Cistercian Order. His calm and gentle demeanor reflects the serenity and devotion central to monastic life.

The Cistercian Order was founded in 1098 at the Abbey of Cîteaux in Burgundy, France, by a group of Benedictine monks seeking to return to a stricter observance of the Rule of Saint Benedict. The order emphasizes simplicity, manual labor, and prayer, with its white habit symbolizing purity and devotion to God. Today, Cistercians, including the Trappists (a stricter branch of the order), remain active worldwide, living lives of contemplation and hospitality in monasteries across Europe, the Americas, and Asia.

This lithograph, from the Album ou Collection Complète et Historique des Costumes de la Cour de Rome, illustrated by G. Perugini, offers a remarkable glimpse into the historical attire of the Cistercian monks and the spiritual traditions of their order. It is an excellent piece for collectors of religious art, monastic history, or historical prints.

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 (this item is Plate 60)

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

This lithograph is a stunning representation of Cistercian spirituality and tradition, making it a perfect addition to collections focused on religious art or Catholic monastic history.