Object Image

The Habit Makes Not the Monk

The painting’s title is based on a medieval proverb warning that a person’s appearance is not an indication of their true character. This painting of Cupid thinly disguised as a monk (you can just see his cowl) is an allegorical depiction of how deceitful appearances can be. Love can easily be concealed, or forged, with disastrous consequences. Cupid has a mischievous expression on his face, who knows which lady’s door he is knocking on?

It was painted in the artist’s studio in Brighton during the winter and spring of 1888/89.

The painting is also known as ‘The Cowl Maketh Not the Monk’.

Watts shocked Victorian society by marrying the 16-year-old actress, Ellen Terry, who was thirty years hi...

1889
Oil on Canvas
110.0 x 61.0cm
BORGM 02316
Image and text © Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, 2021

Where you'll find this