Head of an old man wearing cap in profile to left 1644 - 1652

Wenceslaus Hollar created this etching, “Head of an old man wearing cap in profile to left,” in the 17th century. The artwork is after a drawing by Leonardo da Vinci, but it's Hollar's interpretation that we're seeing here. During the 17th century, European society was structured by strict social hierarchies. In art, that meant the elite were typically immortalized in portraiture, while images of the working class were rare. Hollar's etching challenges this dynamic, by turning his attention to an elderly man, perhaps from the margins of society. The man's aged features are rendered with dignity and respect, his textured skin and the simple cap humanizing him rather than glorifying him. While portraiture was often used to convey power, here, it seems Hollar is interested in a different kind of story—one of aging, resilience, and the beauty of ordinary life. This piece allows us to reflect on the value we place on different members of society, both then and now.