Who painted The Artist's Father, the Painter Willem van Mieris?

The Artist's Father, the Painter Willem van Mieris was painted by Unknown in 1737.

Where can I see The Artist's Father, the Painter Willem van Mieris?

The Artist's Father, the Painter Willem van Mieris is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

What movement is The Artist's Father, the Painter Willem van Mieris?

The Artist's Father, the Painter Willem van Mieris is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

The Artist's Father, the Painter Willem van Mieris

Unknown , 1737

The Artist's Father, the Painter Willem van Mieris is a photography by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1737 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. Created in 1737, this oil painting portrays the elder Willem van Mieris, a noted Dutch painter, seated at a worktable.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1737, this oil painting portrays the elder Willem van Mieris, a noted Dutch painter, seated at a worktable. The work is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, where it is displayed as a study of an artist in his private environment.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter, depicted with a solemn expression, appears absorbed in contemplation. He is dressed in simple, loose garments and a dark head covering, suggesting modesty and focus on intellectual pursuits rather than status. The presence of books, papers and a globe reinforces his scholarly and artistic interests.

Technique & Style

The artist employs chiaroscuro to model the figure, using strong contrasts of light and shadow that give the face and hands a three‑dimensional presence. Fine brushwork renders the textures of fabric, paper, and the reflective surface of a small magnifying glass held in the right hand.

History & Provenance

Since its creation, the portrait has remained in the Netherlands, eventually entering the holdings of the Museum of Ethnography. Documentation traces its acquisition to the early 20th century, though the identity of the original patron remains unknown.