The Friar [Variant]. The Canterbury Tales. New York, 1945.

SZYK, Arthur. The Friar [Variant].  The Canterbury Tales. Signed and Dated “Arthur Szyk, N.Y. (19)45”. Watercolor and gouache on paper. Sheet size: 7″ x 5 1/2″. Image size: 5 3/4″ x 3 3/4″. Very Good condition.

One of Szyk’s most beloved, well remembered works is that of The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, published by The Limited Editions Club in 1946.

The details of the Friar’s long flowing robe and accessories are reflective of Szyk’s early work in costume design for the theatre and stage. For unknown reasons, this image was not selected to illustrate “The Friar’s Tale” in the printed book. His hands patiently cross over his belly and around his wrists is wound a set of rosary beads. His round face wears an open expression, and together with the violin and bow peeking out from under his cape his demeanor is one of being safe and approachable. Perhaps Szyk realized it would be better to show a livelier character for the printed book, for the published Friar looks highly mischievous in contrast to his solemn gown and hands folded in prayer.

Excerpt from The Prologue of The Canterbury Tales:

“There was a Friar, a wonton and a merry,
Licensed to beg — a gay, important fellow.
In all four orders no man was so mellow
With talk and dalliance. He had brought to pass
The marrying of many a buxom lass,
Paying himself the priest and the recorder:
He was a noble pillar to his order!
He was familiar too and well-beloved
By all the franklins everywhere he moved
And by good women of the town withal,
For he had special powers confessional
As he himself would let folk understand:
He had been licensed by the Pope’s own hand!
Full sweetly would he listen to confession,
And very pleasantly absolved transgression…”