Artwork
In Later Life
In Later Life is an oil painting by the Biedermeier artist August Allebé. It dates from 1863 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
In Later Life is a 1863 oil painting by August Allebé, a Dutch artist and educator. The work is part of the Rijksmuseum collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a woman in dark clothing and a white headscarf standing on a snowy street, holding a bowl. Her blurred face and downcast eyes convey a sense of hardship, and her attire and actions suggest she may be begging or collecting alms.
Technique & Style
The painting employs chiaroscuro, creating a strong contrast between light and dark that highlights the woman's face and hands. Allebé's use of this technique adds depth to the scene.
History & Provenance
Created during Allebé's transition from romanticism to realism and impressionism, In Later Life reflects the Biedermeier movement's focus on everyday domestic life. The painting is now held in the Rijksmuseum.
Context
Allebé was a key figure in Amsterdam Impressionism, influencing a generation of Dutch painters through his teaching at the Royal Academy of Amsterdam and his role in establishing the St. Lucas artists' association.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
August Allebé was an artist and teacher from the Northern Netherlands. His early paintings were in a romantic style, but in his later work he was an exponent of realism and impressionism. He was a major initiator and…
Destitute Dead Mother holding her sleeping Child in Winter
Woman Leaning out a Half-Door
Destitute Dead Mother holding her sleeping Child in Winter
In Front of a Church
The Blind Beggar
The Sleeping Kitchenmaid
Le moulin à café en Scène d'hiver
Evicted Tenants
The Bridal Dress
Old Woman by a Fireplace
As one gets old