Portrait of an Old Woman

"Portrait of an Old Woman" by Hans Memling is a small oil on wood panel portrait from the Northern renaissance period, created circa 1475–80. The composition features a close-up view of an elderly woman's face, framed tightly, emphasizing her expressive features and elaborate headdress. The stark contrast between her cream-colored headgear and the dark background, once bluish-green, highlights Memling's masterful use of oil paint. The panel, though cut down over time, remains in good condition following restoration, offering a compelling glimpse into early Netherlandish portraiture.