‘Old Isaac’ 1896

Jozef Israëls’ “Old Isaac” from 1896 portrays the head and shoulders of an elderly man in a dark setting. The man is lit from the front, highlighting his wrinkled face and beard, while the background is obscured in shadow. Israëls, known for his realistic depictions of everyday life, particularly the lives of the poor and working class, creates a somber yet intimate portrait with “Old Isaac.” This painting exemplifies the artist’s signature style, characterized by loose brushstrokes and a focus on the human condition.