Artwork

Old Woman With a Girl

Old Woman With a Girl, by Michiel Sweerts, unspecified, 1651
Old Woman With a Girl, by Michiel Sweerts, unspecified, 1651

Old Woman With a Girl is an unspecified painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Michiel Sweerts. It dates from 1651 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

Old Woman With a Girl is a 1651 painting by Michiel Sweerts, a Flemish artist known for genre scenes and allegorical works. The work is characteristic of the Flemish Baroque style and is now held in the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts an elderly woman and a young girl against a dark background. The contrast between their ages and expressions creates a dynamic interplay, with the old woman engaging the viewer directly while the girl looks away.

Technique & Style

Sweerts employs chiaroscuro, using strong light and dark contrasts to add depth and emotional resonance to the scene. This technique highlights the figures and creates a sense of volume.

History & Provenance

Sweerts was associated with the Bamboccianti, a group of artists known for depicting everyday life in Rome. His work reflects this influence, and his travels across Europe and Asia likely shaped his artistic style.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Michiel Sweerts

Artist

Michiel Sweerts

Michiel Sweerts or Michael Sweerts (29 September 1618 – 1 June 1664) was a Flemish painter and printmaker of the Baroque period, who is known for his allegorical and genre paintings, portraits and tronies.

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