Parting

A bearded man in a red cloak marked with a cross bends low over a wooden staff, bowing toward the hand of a seated figure in white and red robes. A second, hooded figure stands behind holding a bundle of long staffs or poles. Beyond them, a sunlit path leads to a small house on a distant hill, the only bright area in the scene.

Thick shadow surrounds the group, light falling sharply on the red draperies, pale hands, and the glowing landscape beyond, in a strongly chiaroscuro manner. Fabrics are painted with smooth, glossy finish while the background is handled more roughly and abstractly. The hushed gesture and isolated house on the horizon give the scene a solemn, wistful mood.