A Sick Peasant Woman 1646 - 1664

Cornelis Pietersz Bega made A Sick Peasant Woman with oil on canvas. This was a traditional painting medium at the time. Bega expertly uses the viscous nature of oil paints, building up layers to create a tangible sense of depth and volume. You can almost feel the rough texture of the peasants' clothing, and the weight of the objects scattered around the dimly lit room. The painting has a limited color palette, which when combined with the handling of light and shadow, enhances the somber atmosphere. While Bega was a skilled painter, his subject matter also speaks volumes. By choosing to depict the lives of ordinary people, he elevates the everyday experiences of labor and hardship. The amount of work involved in the production process emphasizes the dignity of common people. Paying attention to materials, making, and context allows us to appreciate the richness and complexity of this painting, challenging any perceived hierarchy between fine art and craft.