[Beyond "successful aging: Rembrandt in his self-portraits].
The process of aging has been generally associated with cognitive dedine. However, some complex cognitive abilities, such as wisdom and judgement, have been suggested to improve with age. In the current study, the development of an advanced artistic ability is examined over the life span of Rembrandt H. van Rijn. Analysis of the paintings revealed the development of an old-age-style in the last portrait, characterised by uniformity of texture, facture, and lighting. The self-portrait painted in the last year of Rembrandt's life reflects a high degree of integration of artistic skill and experience gathered in the course of life, and hence reflects features of wisdom in the sence suggested by Baltes. The development of a mature "late" style can help to characterise the emergence of qualitatively different and advanced cognitive abilities in old age.
Rösler
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Psychiatrische Universitätsklinik Basel, Schweiz.
Hofmann
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M
Mackenzie
M
M
Harris
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A
Mapstone
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M
D000375:Aging; D005197:Famous Persons; D049671:History, 18th Century; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008512:Medicine in the Arts; D010151:Paintings / Q000266:history*