Portraits

As the role of founders was recognised, there was a growing desire to learn more about them, including through images. Between realism and devotion, the iconography of the founders varies, reflecting the sensibilities of the era.

While the iconography of Father Terme is fairly limited, that of Mother Thérèse is much richer: how were their images built and spread?

Portraits of Father Terme

Father Terme, who died in 1834, did not live to see the advent of photography. This explains the diversity of the surviving representations, all of which are based on memories.

Photographs of Mother Thérèse during her lifetime

From the mid-19th century onward, photography began to flourish and gradually became more widespread among amateur circles. Mother Thérèse’s superiors asked her to pose for photographs, which is why we are able to see her true face today.

Building the image of Mother Thérèse

By disseminating photographs of its founder, the Congregation takes care to build an image consistent with that of a future saint: it selects them and removes any elements deemed unworthy.

The photo with the rabbit as a model

One image in particular served as the basis for the widespread dissemination of Mother Thérèse’s portrait: the one known as “the photo with the rabbit.”

Keeping a final image

At the end of her life, Mother Thérèse was surrounded by such an aura of holiness that her sisters sought to keep a final image of her.

Mother Thérèse with a halo: an exception

Although canonised, Mother Thérèse has very rarely been depicted with a halo.

Representing Mother Thérèse today

Today, Mother Thérèse’s life inspires artists who do not hesitate to represent the saint in a modern way.

Other representations

The founders have been depicted in various media and for different audiences. Here is a selection of medals, statues, etc.