An apprentice painter is deeply in love with his master’s niece, (he is caring for after her family was killed), but the two keep it secret until he is able to provide in a satisfactory manner. When a mysterious man appears at the studio lurking in the shadows, face hidden by the brim of a large hat, and offers the master a fortune in gold along with the promise of a secure and more than comfortable future for his. Wanting on ly the best for his young charge, he agrees and signs a marriage contract which the young apprentice reluctantly signs as a witness. It is not until later the next day when the girl meets her bridegroom and they see his looks more like an animated corpse than anything else. What is in store for the young girl and how will the young apprentice handle his love for his art and for the girl?