Head of an Old Woman

Orazio Borgianni

Created:
Movement:
1616
Baroque
key Notes:
Chiaroscuro contrast, Expressive realism
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Dimensions:
20 7/8 x 15 3/8 in. (53 x 39 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Head of an Old Woman" is a painting by Orazio Borgianni, created after 1610. Borgianni was an Italian Baroque painter known for his dramatic use of light and shadow. The work exemplifies the artist's interest in realism and the human condition, focusing on the expressive features of the elderly subject. The painting is characterized by its detailed rendering and emotional depth, typical of Borgianni's style. The exact date of creation and the circumstances surrounding the commission are unknown. The painting is part of the collection at the Museo di Capodimonte in Naples, Italy. Borgianni's oeuvre reflects influences from Caravaggio and the broader Baroque movement, though he maintained a distinct approach to portraiture.

Description of the work:

"Head of an Old Woman" by Orazio Borgianni is an oil on canvas painting created after 1610. The work features a close-up portrayal of an elderly woman, characterized by her deeply lined face and expressive features. The use of chiaroscuro highlights the contours of her visage, creating a dramatic interplay of light and shadow. The woman's gaze is direct and engaging, conveying a sense of wisdom and experience. Her hair is depicted in a simple, understated manner, emphasizing the naturalism of her appearance. The background is dark and unadorned, which serves to focus attention on the subject's face. The color palette is muted, with earthy tones predominating, enhancing the somber mood of the piece. Overall, the painting exemplifies Borgianni's skill in capturing the emotional depth and physical reality of his subjects.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Head of an Old Woman