Old Man with a Walking Stick 1875 - 1877

Wilhelm Leibl created this etching, *Old Man with a Walking Stick*, during the second half of the 19th century. Leibl was a German realist painter, printmaker, and etcher. During the period in which Leibl was active, German art began to shift away from idealized depictions of heroism and romanticism, and toward portraits that emphasized the realities of everyday life, particularly among the working class. Leibl was committed to representing individuals in a way that honored their dignity and experience. This subject is shown with a somber expression, his hands clasped over the top of a simple walking stick. The man’s worn features and modest clothing suggest a life of hardship. Leibl’s choice to focus on the elderly working class reflects a broader interest in representing the experiences of those often overlooked. The artist’s commitment to realism, while innovative, often led to conflict with the art establishment which preferred more romantic, heroic depictions. This etching is a reminder of the importance of seeing and valuing the lives of all members of society.