This drawing and the following lot probably date from the spring of 1838, when Lewis visited Naples. A third drawing of the same monk was sold in these Rooms on 21st January, 1911, lot 88, and again at Sotheby's 10th July, 1980, lot 156 for 1,900 (catalogued as 'A Spanish Mendicant'). These studies seem to be in preparation for Lewis's 1840 'Easter Day at Rome - Pilgrims and Peasants of the Neapolitan States Awaiting the Benediction of the Pope at St. Peter's' which is in the Sunderland Museum and Art Gallery. To the right of the picture stands the bearded monk, staring in anticipation at the balcomy where the Pope is to appear