The artwork, titled “St. Luke,” is an oil on canvas painting created around 1625 by the renowned artist Frans Hals, a prominent figure of the Baroque art movement. This religious painting, which measures 70 by 55 cm, is currently housed in the Odesa Museum of Western and Eastern Art in Odesa, Ukraine.
The artwork portrays St. Luke, a figure depicted with an aura of introspection and scholarly contemplation. The bearded saint, captured in a moment of writing, exhibits a serene and thoughtful demeanor. His head rests upon his hand, suggesting deep engagement with the text before him. The rich, earthy tones and the use of chiaroscuro highlight the textures of his skin and the folds of his robe, creating a vivid and lifelike representation. A background featuring subtle dark hues serves to emphasize the saint’s illuminated face and writing hand, making him the focal point of this striking composition.