Old woman reading in prayer c. 1655

This red chalk drawing by Nicolaes Maes, created around 1655, depicts an old woman seated at a table, her hands clasped in prayer while she reads a book. The woman is clothed in a long cloak that covers her head, conveying a sense of piety and devotion. The work showcases Maes's skill in capturing the nuances of human emotion and the quiet intimacy of everyday life, making it a compelling study of faith and contemplation. The Städel Museum, where the artwork is housed, holds a significant collection of Maes's works, highlighting his importance in the Dutch Golden Age.