Artwork
An Elderly Man in Prayer
An Elderly Man in Prayer is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Rembrandt van Rijn. It dates from 1664 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting depicts an elderly man seated in contemplative prayer.
- Accession no.
- 1967.16
- Credit line
- Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund
About this work
Overview
This painting depicts an elderly man seated in contemplative prayer. The work is characterized by a somber atmosphere and a focus on the figure's introspective state.
Subject & Meaning
The elderly man is shown with eyes nearly closed and hands clasped over a large book, conveying a sense of quiet devotion. The scene suggests a private moment of spiritual reflection.
Technique & Style
The painting features dramatic lighting and a dark color palette, with the figure's face illuminated against a somber background. The use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and emphasizes the subject's inner light.
History & Provenance
Formerly attributed to Rembrandt, the painting is now considered the work of a follower or later imitator, due to certain technical aspects such as the handling of brushwork and shadow.
Artist & collection
Artist
Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn, known mononymously as Rembrandt, was a Dutch Golden Age painter, printmaker, and draughtsman.
