The Last of the Brotherhood
1855
oil
From the collection of National Gallery of Ireland
1855
oil
From the collection of National Gallery of Ireland
This painting shows a dimly lit church interior. The walls are lined with stone arches and columns, and a large cross hangs from the ceiling. In the foreground, a figure sits on the steps, facing the wall. The scene is bathed in a warm, golden light that seems to emanate from the figure itself. The atmosphere is one of quiet contemplation, as if the figure is lost in thought or prayer. If you're interested in learning more about this style of painting, you might want to look up the technique of chiaroscuro.