The artwork, “Head of an Old Peasant Woman with White Cap,” created by Vincent van Gogh in 1884 in Nuenen, Netherlands, exemplifies the Realism art movement and the portrait genre. Executed in oil on canvas, this piece is currently held in a private collection.
The artwork depicts an elderly peasant woman, conveying a depth of character and authenticity. The subject is shown wearing a white cap, which contrasts with her somber expression and the dark background, emphasizing the contours and emotions on her aged face. Van Gogh’s use of broad brushstrokes and earthy tones captures the rawness of rural life, reflecting the artist’s empathetic observation of his subjects. The stark simplicity and honest portrayal align with the Realism movement’s focus on depicting ordinary people and their lives with unembellished truthfulness.
