January 17 is the feast day of St. Anthony the Abbot. Saint Athanasius, who knew Anthony and wrote his biography, said, “Anthony was not known for his writings nor for his worldly wisdom, nor for any art, but simply for his reverence toward God.”

“St. Anthony the Abott”(c.1635) by Diego Velazquez portrays the saint gazing toward God and in direct communication with Him. This is a fine example of Baroque portraiture, using chiaroscuro to draw attention to the Saint’s facial features and long beard. This painting is currently part of a private collection.

What does this portrait teach you about the life of St. Anthony the Abbot?