Who painted Old woman in the pantry?

Old woman in the pantry was painted by David Ryckaert III in 1648.

Where can I see Old woman in the pantry?

Old woman in the pantry is held by Kunsthistorisches Museum.

What movement is Old woman in the pantry?

Old woman in the pantry is associated with Flemish Baroque painting.

Artwork

Old woman in the pantry

David Ryckaert III , 1648

Old woman in the pantry is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist David Ryckaert III. It dates from 1648 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

David Ryckaert III, a 17th‑century Flemish painter based in Antwerp, completed the oil painting *Old Woman in the Pantry* in 1648. Executed in the Flemish Baroque idiom, the work depicts a domestic interior and is presently part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum’s collection.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on an elderly woman seated in a dimly lit pantry, surrounded by foodstuffs and cooking implements. She holds a knife, suggesting the preparation of a meal, while her thoughtful expression invites contemplation of daily labor and the quiet dignity of household tasks.

Technique & Style

Ryckaert employs a pronounced chiaroscuro, using a narrow light source—likely a window or candle—to illuminate the figure against the surrounding gloom. The contrast of light and shadow creates a three‑dimensional sense of form, while the warm palette and modest detailing convey a sense of intimacy within the modest setting.

History & Provenance

Painted in 1648, the canvas remained in private hands before entering the Kunsthistorisches Museum, where it has been displayed as part of the museum’s Flemish Baroque holdings. The work exemplifies Ryckaert’s focus on genre scenes that document everyday life in 17th‑century Flanders.

Context

Ryckaert’s oeuvre is noted for its range from domestic interiors to more exotic subjects such as alchemical laboratories and infernal visions. *Old Woman in the Pantry* reflects his interest in portraying ordinary people with a realistic eye, aligning with the broader Flemish Baroque trend of combining narrative content with detailed observation of daily routines.

Artist & collection

Artist

David Ryckaert III

David Ryckaert III, David Rijckaert III or David Rijckaert the Younger (2 December 1612, Antwerp – 11 November 1661, Antwerp) was a Flemish painter known for his contribution to genre painting, in particular through his scenes of merry…