Artwork

Bust of an Old Woman

Bust of an Old Woman, by Cornelis Pietersz Bega, ink, 1648
Bust of an Old Woman, by Cornelis Pietersz Bega, ink, 1648

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

Portrait of Cornelis Pietersz Bega

Artist

Cornelis Pietersz Bega

Cornelis Pietersz Bega, or Cornelis Pietersz Begijn (1631/32 – 27 August 1664) was a Dutch Golden Age painter and engraver.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.