Artwork
Old woman reading
Old woman reading is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Jan Lievens. It dates from 1629 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Old woman reading is a 1629 oil painting by Jan Lievens, a Dutch painter associated with Rembrandt.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts an elderly woman intently reading a book, adorned with a patterned turban and purple robe, and wearing a small cross. Her serious expression and focused gaze convey a sense of devotion or contemplation.
Technique & Style
The artist's use of chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and dark, highlights the woman's features and emphasizes her engagement with the book. The dark background and gentle handling of light create a sense of depth and volume.
History & Provenance
The painting is part of the Rijksmuseum collection. Lievens, born in Leiden in 1607, trained under Pieter Lastman in Amsterdam and shared a studio with Rembrandt until 1631.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Jan Lievens (24 October 1607 – 4 June 1674) was a Dutch Golden Age painter who was associated with his close contemporary Rembrandt, a year older, in the early parts of their careers.
