by Thomas Cole
oil on panel, 30.6 x 34.9 cm
Albany Institute of History & Art, USA
About the artwork:
In "Old Age," the allegorical journey reaches its conclusion. The painting shows an elderly man in a boat that has reached calm waters, symbolizing the end of life's turbulent journey. The river, which was filled with obstacles in the previous paintings, now flows smoothly into the horizon, merging with the sky in a tranquil and luminous expanse.
The guardian angel, who has been a guiding presence throughout the series, is now pointing the man towards the heavens, suggesting the transcendence of the soul after death. The landscape is serene and suffused with a warm, ethereal light, reflecting a sense of peace and fulfillment at the end of life's journey.