Artwork

Peasant Lighting his Pipe

Peasant Lighting his Pipe, by Cornelis Bega, 1642
Peasant Lighting his Pipe, by Cornelis Bega, 1642

Peasant Lighting his Pipe is a print by the Baroque artist Cornelis Bega. It dates from 1642 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1943.541

About this work

Overview

Peasant Lighting his Pipe, created in 1642 by Dutch Golden Age artist Cornelis Pietersz Bega, is a characteristic genre scene depicting a solitary figure in a humble interior setting.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays an aged peasant intently lighting his pipe, emphasizing everyday life's quiet moments. His simple, worn attire and absorbed expression underscore the ordinary, unromanticized nature of the subject.

Technique & Style

Bega employed chiaroscuro to create depth and contrast, focusing attention on the peasant's face and the flame. This stylistic choice adds a sense of intimacy and highlights the subject's contemplative state.

History & Provenance

Born into an artistic family, Bega's work was influenced by his teacher Adriaen van Ostade. The piece is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Sitting Man with His Hat in His Right Hand
Sitting Man with His Hat in His Right Hand, Cornelis Bega

Artist & collection

Portrait of Cornelis Bega

Artist

Cornelis Bega

Cornelis Pietersz Bega, or Cornelis Pietersz Begijn (1631/32 – 27 August 1664) was a Dutch Golden Age painter and engraver.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Peasant Lighting his Pipe?

Peasant Lighting his Pipe was painted by Cornelis Bega in 1642.

Where can I see Peasant Lighting his Pipe?

Peasant Lighting his Pipe is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Peasant Lighting his Pipe?

Peasant Lighting his Pipe is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Peasant Lighting his Pipe?

Museum-quality prints of Peasant Lighting his Pipe are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.