Babylonian Nun and Priest

Paul-Émile Borduas

1948

Gift of Dr. Jacques Dansereau, inv. 1986.4

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

Two abstract figures, one on the left with a black triangular head and a checkered body, and another on the right with red and black elements, are set against a yellow and blue background. The painting uses thick, visible brushstrokes. Two abstract figures, one on the left with a black triangular head and a checkered body, and another on the right with red and black elements, are set against a yellow and blue background. The painting uses thick, visible brushstrokes. Babylonian Nun and Priest shows two "figures” – female on the left, male on the right – painted with the palette knife, in a sort of mysterious landscape. These faceless figures (the "nun”'s face seems to be veiled) have an imposing hieratic presence, and the work emanates a special dreamlike atmosphere. Credit: shows two "figures” – female on the left, male on the right – painted with the palette kni