Gabriel Metsu

Old Man with a Jug

A very recent acquisition, Old Man with a Jug depicts a male figure of advanced age with a grey beard, portrayed three-quarter length, smiling tipsily at the viewer. The man holds a grey jug with a metal top in his right hand, which is presumably filled with beer. Even though the background of the painting is indistinct, he is unquestionably seated in a tavern. The man’s sympathetic facial expression suggest that he is thoroughly enjoying himself and would welcome the viewer’s company. Metsu painted this work in Amsterdam around 1656-1657.