As Michelangelo approached the end of his life, his artistic output reached new heights. From his role as the chief architect of St. Peter’s Basilica to his breathtaking murals at the Pauline Chapel in Rome, his legacy was solidified. Passing away at the age of 88 in 1564, Michelangelo’s longevity raised questions about whether his advanced years granted him unique skills and insights.
Art historian Larry Silver delves into this topic in his book Old Age in Art, exploring how age impacts the work of artists like Michelangelo and how aging is depicted in Western art throughout history. The representation of old age in art has often been overlooked, but Silver sheds light on the complexities and value judgments associated with portraying elderly individuals.
Depictions of old age in art can vary widely, from symbolizing wisdom and experience in works like Albrecht Dürer’s “St. Jerome” to portraying decline and moral decay as seen in the striking sculpture “Old Drunkard” from the 2nd century BCE. Artists like Quinten Massys and Hieronymus Bosch have depicted old age as lecherous and greedy, while Francisco de Goya’s works have linked old women to witchcraft.
Silver’s analysis extends to the contemporary art world, highlighting the ageism and sexism present in artistic institutions. While his exploration is thorough, there are areas where the book falls short. The focus on Western art neglects the rich artistic traditions of Japan and China, with only brief mentions of non-Western art forms.
Additionally, the book lacks a significant discussion of female artists and their portrayals of old age. Artists like Alice Neel, Julia Margaret Cameron, and Imogen Cunningham are briefly mentioned, but the overall narrative remains male-dominated. The final chapter, which explores the technical and conceptual changes in an artist’s work as they age, largely focuses on male artists like Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso.
Despite these shortcomings, Old Age in Art succeeds in highlighting the importance of artworks created by elderly individuals. Pieces like Alice Neel’s “Self-Portrait” capture the power and grace that can come with advanced age. Neel’s self-assured gaze in the painting, created at the age of 80, reflects a lifetime of experience and wisdom.
