Who painted Portrait of an Old Woman?

Portrait of an Old Woman was painted by Jacob Gerritsz Cuyp in 1624.

Where can I see Portrait of an Old Woman?

Portrait of an Old Woman is held by Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

What movement is Portrait of an Old Woman?

Portrait of an Old Woman is associated with Dutch Golden Age.

Can I buy a print of Portrait of an Old Woman?

Museum-quality prints of Portrait of an Old Woman are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Portrait of an Old Woman

Jacob Gerritsz Cuyp , 1624

Portrait of an Old Woman is a paint painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Jacob Gerritsz Cuyp. It dates from 1624 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of an Old Woman, painted in 1624 by Jacob Gerritsz Cuyp, is an oil-on-canvas portrait from the Dutch Golden Age. It depicts a seated elderly woman in formal attire, characterized by a somber expression and straightforward gaze.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, an unidentified old woman, is portrayed with dignity. Her attire—a dark dress, fur-trimmed coat, and white ruff—suggests a modest yet respectable social status. The solemnity of her expression and the simplicity of the plain background underscore a sense of quiet contemplation.

Technique & Style

Cuyp employs traditional Dutch portrait techniques, emphasizing realism through detailed rendering of textures (fur, fabric) and the subtle play of light on the subject's face. The overall composition exudes a sense of intimacy and restraint, typical of early 17th-century Dutch portraiture.

History & Provenance

Created in 1624 by Jacob Gerritsz Cuyp, a Dordrecht-based artist known for his portraits, the painting is now part of the collection at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

Context

As a work from the Dutch Golden Age, Portrait of an Old Woman reflects the period's emphasis on portraiture and the depiction of everyday life with realism and sobriety. Cuyp's work, while not as renowned as his son Aelbert's landscapes, contributes to the understanding of portrait painting during this era.

Legacy

While not widely recognized as a landmark piece, the portrait demonstrates Cuyp's skill in capturing the essence of his sitters, contributing to the broader legacy of Dutch Golden Age portraiture and the Cuyp family's artistic heritage.