Artwork

Old Irish Woman

Old Irish Woman, by George Bellows, 1924
Old Irish Woman, by George Bellows, 1924

Old Irish Woman is a print by George Bellows. It dates from 1924 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Old Irish Woman is a 1924 print by George Bellows, an American realist artist. The work is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts an older woman seated, wrapped in a heavy coat. Her face is lined but calm, conveying a sense of quiet presence. The title suggests the subject is Irish, but the artist's focus is on capturing her character rather than specific ethnic traits.

Technique & Style

The drawing is characterized by rough, sketchy lines and sharp, dark strokes that create a sense of chiaroscuro, defining light and shadow. The artist's use of bold, expressive lines gives the image a sense of immediacy and energy.

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.