Throughout the centuries many artists have painted people to depict the times and the world around them. Even though they show times of old, that doesn’t mean that they still can’t be relatable today. Below are a few examples of such paintings’ duality while being timeless classics.
Jester with a Lute, by the Dutch artist Frans Hals.
The smug look of the Jester with a lute is something that any college student can appreciate. It’s the look of a friend who knows full well they look stupid, but are bound and determined to have a good time, even if it means making a fool of themselves.
Christ appears to the Three Marys by Laurent de La Hyre, hanging in the Louvre in Paris.
The painting of Christ Appears to the Three Marys is one that is supposed to be majestic and stunning, but instead relatable to all of those clumsy people out there. What was supposed to be his big moment, Christ looks like he accidently dropped from the sky, just to be tripped by the Marys and to fall on his face. An ‘oh sh@t’ look plastered on his face is one that can be seen on mine as I trip up the stairs every other day.
Marius at Minturnae by Germain-Jean Drousais.
Walking into your room, ready to show your roommate your awesome new sword, you come in on a shocking scene. Your roommate is getting dressed and all you can do is shield your eyes and pretend that you haven’t seen anything. “Noooo,” your roommate seems to say as their arm stretches out in slow motion, but you have already seen too much.
The Cheat with the Ace of Diamonds, by George de La Tour.
The lady in the middle with the red hat’s face is what gives this painting emotion. Her look of utter annoyance is that of someone who knows their friend is a cheat, but the wine can make up for a lot of annoyances.
Two Tax Gatherers, by Workshop of Marinus van Reymerswale in The National Gallery.
Counting your money after you buy flashy matching outfits with your friend, you wonder if you still have enough to go out and show off your outfits to the world. After finding that you have enough to order pizza, you look at the camera like it’s The Office because you said this would happen when you were at the checkout counter.
An Old Woman (‘The Ugly Duchess’) by Quinten Massys in The National Gallery.
When you’re ugly, but your outfit is popping so it doesn’t even matter.
Boy bitten by a Lizard by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio in The National Gallery.
You went to your friend’s house, secretly just to see their pet but it had the audacity to bite you as if it didn’t like you forcing it into your lap and loving it.
Anyone who says old art is stuffy is lying. Paintings can transcend through the centuries and depict our lives if only we’re willing to look deep enough at the people depicted.