Artwork
The Last Drop
The Last Drop is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Judith Leyster. It dates from 1639 and is held in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Last Drop is an oil painting created by Judith Leyster around 1629. It is part of the Philadelphia Museum of Art's John G. Johnson collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a dimly lit scene with three figures: a man in red, a woman pouring a drink, and a skeleton. The presence of the skeleton and an hourglass suggests a theme of mortality and the passing of time, contrasting with the man's confident gesture.
Technique & Style
The painting features dark, moody colors with the man's red attire creating a focal point. Leyster's use of chiaroscuro emphasizes the drama of the scene, drawing attention to the figures and their actions.
History & Provenance
Initially attributed to Frans Hals, The Last Drop was correctly identified as a work by Judith Leyster in 1903, when the 'JL*' signature on a tankard was noticed. It is now recognized as part of Leyster's oeuvre, showcasing her skill in using light and dramatic composition.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Judith Leyster lived in Haarlem, the Netherlands, in the 1600s—a time when painting was mostly a man’s game.
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