About this sheet
Clerc Régulier Mineur - 1862 Hand-Colored Lithograph of a Minor Cleric Regular
This 1862 hand-colored lithograph depicts a Clerc Régulier Mineur, or Minor Cleric Regular, dressed in a plain black cassock and biretta, symbolizing his commitment to a life of humility and service. The cleric holds a book close to his chest, reflecting the scholarly and spiritual focus of this Catholic religious order. His solemn posture evokes devotion, study, and pastoral care.
The Minor Clerics Regular, also known as the Theatines, were founded in 1524 by Saint Cajetan and Gian Pietro Carafa (later Pope Paul IV) during the Catholic Reformation. Dedicated to reforming the clergy and revitalizing the faith, they emphasized strict discipline, charity, and education. Today, Theatines remain active in parishes and missions worldwide, especially in Europe, the Americas, and India.
This lithograph, part of the *Album ou Collection Complète et Historique des Costumes de la Cour de Rome*, was skillfully illustrated by G. Perugini. It serves as a fascinating artifact of religious history and a visual record of the traditional attire of Minor Clerics Regular, making it an excellent addition to collections of ecclesiastical art, monastic traditions, or antique 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
28. Sylvestrine Monk
29. Barnabite Monk
30. Canon Regular of St. Salvator
31. Benedictine Monk of Monte Cassino
32. Hermit
33. Minor Cleric Regular (this item is Plate 67)
... (Full list includes 80 titles; available upon request)
This lithograph offers a timeless glimpse into the life and traditions of Minor Clerics Regular, perfect for collectors of antique religious art, Catholic history, and monastic culture.