Old Woman and Boy with Candles c. 1616 - 1617

"Old Woman and Boy with Candles" is a painting by Peter Paul Rubens, a leading figure in the Flemish Baroque style. Painted around 1616-1617, the artwork depicts a close-up portrait of an old woman and a young boy in a dimly lit setting. The dramatic use of chiaroscuro (contrast of light and dark) highlights the figures' faces, creating a sense of intimacy and mystery. The candle's flame illuminates the scene, casting warm, flickering shadows that emphasize the texture of the skin and the wrinkles of the old woman's face. Rubens' masterful brushstrokes and attention to detail bring an air of realism and emotional depth to this captivating composition.