The first act introduces us to Rafael, a monk recently arrived at a convent where he seeks to create his work of art: a painting of" La Dolorosa" that brings him so many rich memories that even the convent's Prior and Brother Lucas begin to notice and doubt the spiritual serenity of their new brother. The convent’s orchard turns out to be an ideal place for the inspiration Rafael seeks. Perico, his helper, wants to learn to paint and begs Rafael to explain the painting to him; he consents, singing a painful love song.