The Nun by Gwen John. A portrait of a nun in a white habit and dark apron, seated at a wooden table with her hands resting on a book.

The Nun

Gwen John

1917 · Oil Paint, Cardboard

A quiet and contemplative portrait of a nun, rendered in a soft, chalky palette of earth tones and grays.

$243

For the selected configuration

From $129

6 frame sizes

Frame size
Frame color
Mount
Paper type
Glaze

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

Where it works

A balanced piece with a quiet mood with warm, lived-in color — holds a wall without competing for attention.

Often works in
Bedroom · Study · Library
Placement
Works well as a centered vertical note
Walls
Benefits from a distinct wall tone
Color notes
Soft gray, Soft sage, Warm beige

About the piece

Painted around 1917, this portrait by Gwen John captures a moment of stillness and devotion. Utilizing a characteristic dry-brush technique on cardboard, John creates a textured, atmospheric surface that emphasizes the humble, meditative nature of the subject and her environment.