Bust of a Capuchin, Representing the Photographer Oberli of Solothurn in a Cowl (1863–1865)

Frank Buchser, a notable Swiss painter of the 19th century, is celebrated for his remarkable ability to capture character and emotion within his portraits. One striking example of this talent is evident in "Bust of a Capuchin, Representing the Photographer Oberli of Solothurn in a Cowl," painted between 1863 and 1865.This compelling portrait features the intense gaze of a man dressed in the modest clothing of a Capuchin monk. The subject, identified as the photographer Oberli of Solothurn, wears the traditional cowl, lending him a contemplative and somewhat mysterious aura. Buchser's use of dark, subdued tones emphasizes the solemnity and depth of the figure, while strategic strokes of light across the face and collar highlight a rugged visage marked by sharp eyes and a well-defined, curling mustache and beard.Buchser’s painting not only reflects the physical likeness but also suggests a rich inner life and profession of the subject, connecting both his religious semblance and his role as a photographer. This painting serves as a beautiful synthesis of personal identity and professional bearing, inviting viewers to ponder the intriguing duality of the man depicted.Located in numerous prestigious collections, Buchser's works are a testament to his skill in portraiture. This painting, in particular, offers a captivating glimpse into a moment of 19th-century Swiss life, bridging the gap between the ecclesiastical and the artistic.