Artwork
Mistress and Maid
Mistress and Maid is an oil painting by Abraham van der Eyk. It dates from 1709 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.
About this work
Overview
Mistress and Maid is a 1709 oil painting by Dutch artist Abraham van der Eyk, created when the painter was in his mid-twenties. The work is a genre scene, a common subject in Dutch art of the time.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts an intimate moment between a seated woman, likely the mistress of the house, and her maid, who stands beside her holding a large bird. The mistress reaches out to touch the bird, suggesting a gentle interaction between the two figures.
Technique & Style
The painting showcases van der Eyk's attention to detail, particularly in the intricate patterning of the mistress's dress. The contrast between the simplicity of the maid's dark robe and the elegance of the mistress's attire is also noteworthy. A dark background with visible leaves at the top adds depth to the composition.
History & Provenance
Mistress and Maid is part of the collection at Statens Museum for Kunst. Abraham van der Eyk, born in Leiden in 1684, was a Dutch painter whose son, Matthijs, also pursued a career in painting.
Artist & collection
Artist
Abraham van der Eyk (1684–1724) was a Dutch painter born in Leiden. His son, Matthijs van der Eyk (1710–1746), was also a painter.
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