Kneeling Nun by Martin van Meytens. A young nun in a black habit and white wimple kneels in prayer before an open book on a wooden desk, draped with a vibrant red cloth.

Kneeling Nun

Martin van Meytens

1731 · Copper, Oil Paint

An elegant 18th-century portrait of a young nun in a moment of quiet devotion.

$243

For the selected configuration

From $129

1 frame size

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Made to order in ~2 business days · Free U.S. standard shipping (typically 5–8 business days after dispatch)

Where it works

A calm artwork with moderate presence with warm, lived-in color — sits comfortably in a more formal setting.

Often works in
Study · Library · Bedroom
Placement
Strong for entryways, narrow walls, and vertical placements
Walls
Benefits from light or mid-tone surroundings
Color notes
Charcoal black, Rich brown, Aged gold

About the piece

Painted in 1731 by the Swedish-Austrian court artist Martin van Meytens, this oil on copper work captures a serene moment of contemplative prayer. The nun's delicate features and focused gaze are highlighted by a soft light, creating a striking contrast against her dark habit and the rich, crimson velvet draped across her lectern.