Old man washing his Hands 1648 - 1651

Bernardo Keilhau’s “Old Man Washing His Hands” was made using oil paints, a medium which allowed the artist to build up layers of color and texture. The rich, earthy tones of the painting draw attention to the mundane, yet essential act of washing. The rough texture of the man’s skin and the simple bowl are rendered with a tangible sense of material presence, achieved through layering and blending of oil paint. Keilhau's work is characterized by the concept of povery. In this painting, he brings attention to the labor involved in maintaining cleanliness, a task often overlooked. The work elevates the everyday labor of ordinary people to the sphere of fine art. Keilhau's choice to depict such a scene, and his emphasis on the textures and tones of the man's hands, remind us that art isn't just about grand narratives. It's also about appreciating the materials and processes that shape our daily existence.