oil on canvas, 68 x 59 cm
Venice, Gallerie dell´Accademia
There is now a general consensus to accept La Vecchia as an autograph work by Giorgione. There is, however, no consensus about the intended meaning of the painting. 16th and 17th century inventories describe it as a portrait of Giorgione's mother. But most scholars assume a deeper allegorical meaning. The woman may symbolise Age. The piece of paper in her hand has engendered more than its fair share of interpretations. The inscription reads "col tempo", which translates as "with time". Thus some scholars identify the painting as a depiction of vanity, symbolising the transcience of youth, beauty and all things of the world.
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