Artwork
Bust of an Old Woman

Bust of an Old Woman is an ink print by the Baroque artist Cornelis Pietersz Bega. It dates from 1648 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Bust of an Old Woman is an etching created by Cornelis Pietersz Bega in 1648. It is a print that showcases the artist's technical skill and attention to detail.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts an older woman wearing a large hat and high collar, rendered in a way that emphasizes her individualized features. The subject is characteristic of Bega's focus on genre scenes and figures, often drawn from peasant life or fanciful subjects.
Technique & Style
The work features a textured, scratchy line quality, particularly around the subject's hair and clothing, achieved through the etching technique. This approach creates a rough, almost grainy appearance that adds depth to the image without relying on color.
Artist & collection
Artist
Cornelis Pietersz Bega, or Cornelis Pietersz Begijn (1631/32 – 27 August 1664) was a Dutch Golden Age painter and engraver.



















