A Musician and His Daughter

Thomas de Keyser

Created:
Movement:
1629
Baroque
key Notes:
Domestic intimacy, Dutch Golden Age portraiture.
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Dimensions:
29 1/2 x 20 3/4 in. (74.9 x 52.7 cm)
medium:
Oil on wood
story of the work:

"A Musician and His Daughter" is a painting by Dutch artist Thomas de Keyser, created in 1629. The work is an oil on canvas and measures approximately 100 x 80 cm. It depicts a musician, likely the father, playing a string instrument while his daughter listens attentively. The painting exemplifies the genre of family portraiture common in the Dutch Golden Age, emphasizing domesticity and the importance of music in family life. De Keyser was known for his portraits and genre scenes, and this work reflects his skill in capturing intimate moments. The identities of the figures in the painting are not definitively known. The painting is part of the collection at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

Description of the work:

"A Musician and His Daughter," painted by Thomas de Keyser in 1629, features a musician seated with his daughter in an intimate interior setting. The composition is characterized by a warm color palette, predominantly utilizing rich browns and golds, which enhances the sense of warmth and familial connection. The musician is depicted holding a stringed instrument, likely a lute, while his daughter gazes at him, creating a moment of shared engagement. The figures are rendered with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing De Keyser's skill in capturing textures, particularly in the clothing and the instrument. The background is subtly detailed, suggesting a domestic space without detracting from the central figures. Light plays a significant role in the painting, illuminating the faces of the subjects and creating a gentle contrast with the darker surroundings. The overall composition conveys a sense of harmony and intimacy, reflecting the themes of music and familial bonds.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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A Musician and His Daughter