Portrait of an Old Man 1470 - 1475

This panel portrait of an old man was painted in the late 15th century, by Hugo van der Goes, using oil on wood. Oil painting was still a relatively new technique at this time, allowing for the blending of pigments to create incredibly realistic skin tones. Notice the wrinkled texture of the man’s face, achieved through thin glazes of paint. The process of preparing the wood panel was also crucial. The smooth surface allowed van der Goes to achieve a remarkable level of detail. Consider too, the social context. This wasn’t just about technical skill. It was about capturing the individual essence of the sitter. The choice of oil paint, which allowed for detailed rendering, suggests a desire to immortalize this man with dignity and respect. By focusing on the materials and making, we understand that this portrait is more than just an image. It’s a testament to the artist's skill, and the value placed on individual identity during the Renaissance.