Study heads of an old man

This 1619 study of heads of an old man is a preparatory work typical of Jordaens' practice of painting life studies that could serve as models for apostles, prophets, or character types in larger compositions. These powerful head studies are among Jordaens' most admired works. Jordaens, who outlived both Rubens and Van Dyck to become the dominant figure in Flemish Baroque painting for the second half of the seventeenth century, was particularly celebrated for his exuberant genre subjects, especially his series on the Flemish proverb about the King of the Bean.

The study demonstrates Jordaens' exceptional ability to capture the character of aged physiognomy through vigorous, confident brushwork and warm, naturalistic flesh painting.