Who painted Portrait of a child, presumed Mattys Decker (b.1679)?

Portrait of a child, presumed Mattys Decker (b.1679) was painted by Arent de Gelder in 1690.

Where can I see Portrait of a child, presumed Mattys Decker (b.1679)?

Portrait of a child, presumed Mattys Decker (b.1679) is held by Fitzwilliam Museum.

What movement is Portrait of a child, presumed Mattys Decker (b.1679)?

Portrait of a child, presumed Mattys Decker (b.1679) is associated with Dutch Golden Age.

Artwork

Portrait of a child, presumed Mattys Decker (b.1679)

Arent de Gelder , 1690

Portrait of a child, presumed Mattys Decker (b.1679) is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Arent de Gelder. It dates from 1690 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of a child, presumed Mattys Decker is a Dutch Golden Age oil painting created by Arent de Gelder in 1690. It is now part of the Fitzwilliam Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a child, identified as Mattys Decker (born 1679), dressed in a dark brown outfit with gold trim and a white collar, conveying a sense of youthful innocence through their neutral expression.

Technique & Style

De Gelder's work, characteristic of continuing Rembrandt's late style into the 18th century, features a simple yet effective composition: the child stands against a red tablecloth, with hands on its edge, showcasing the artist's ability to capture subtlety in expression and texture.

History & Provenance

Created in 1690, the painting's history prior to its acquisition by the Fitzwilliam Museum is not detailed here, highlighting the primary known fact of its current ownership.

Context

As one of the few artists to extend Rembrandt's style into the next century, De Gelder's portrait reflects the evolving artistic tastes of the late Dutch Golden Age, emphasizing intimacy and naturalism.

Legacy

While not individually renowned, the portrait contributes to De Gelder's recognized legacy as a portraitist, especially of children, reflecting the enduring appeal of 17th-century Dutch domestic portraiture.

Artist & collection

Artist

Arent de Gelder

Aert de Gelder (Dutch: ; October 26, 1645 – August 27, 1727) was a Dutch painter, the only Dutch artist to paint in the tradition of Rembrandt's late style into the 18th century.