Artwork

Irish Grandmother

Irish Grandmother, by George Bellows, 1923
Irish Grandmother, by George Bellows, 1923

Irish Grandmother is a print by George Bellows. It dates from 1923 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Irish Grandmother is a 1923 print by American artist George Bellows, known for his realist depictions of everyday life.

Subject & Meaning

The print portrays an elderly woman in a domestic setting, her face and hands conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and wisdom. Her gentle expression and clasped hands invite the viewer to reflect on her life and experiences.

Technique & Style

Bellows' use of chiaroscuro creates depth and dimensionality, drawing attention to the woman's face and hands. Soft, expressive lines render her features, capturing her character and atmosphere through direct observation.

History & Provenance

Completed in 1923, Irish Grandmother is a representative work by George Bellows, an artist celebrated for his realist approach to urban life and portraiture.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Bellows

Artist

George Bellows

George Wesley Bellows (August 12 or August 19, 1882 – January 8, 1925) was an American realist painter, known for his bold depictions of urban life in New York City.

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