Oude man 1789

This etching, *Oude man*, was created by Jan Chalon sometime in the late 18th century. Chalon lived during the Enlightenment, a period that championed reason and individualism, influencing how people viewed themselves and others. The artwork presents us with the portrait of an old man, his face etched with the lines of time and experience. The choice of an elderly subject invites us to consider the value of age and wisdom, contrasting with a society often focused on youth and novelty. The man’s clothing, including his distinct hat, hints at a specific social or professional status, prompting questions about identity and belonging. Does he represent a figure of authority, or is he an everyman, a stand-in for the universal experience of aging? The artist’s focus on the man’s face encourages an intimate engagement, bridging the gap between the viewer and the subject. We are left to consider how society’s treatment of the elderly reflects its broader values and prejudices, and how individual stories contribute to our collective understanding of the human condition.