Artwork
The Bedroom
The Bedroom is an oil painting by the Baroque artist Pieter de Hooch. It dates from 1659 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
“The Bedroom” is an oil painting created by the Dutch artist Pieter de Hooch between 1658 and 1660. This work exemplifies the domestic genre scenes characteristic of the Dutch Golden Age. Rendered on canvas, it is currently held within the collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., representing a significant example of the artist's output from this period.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a serene domestic interior, centered around a bed and various pieces of furniture. De Hooch renders a seemingly ordinary space, yet imbues it with a profound sense of tranquility. The arrangement of objects and the overall quietude of the scene invite contemplation, reflecting an appreciation for the intimate and private moments of daily life.
Technique & Style
De Hooch masterfully employs light and shadow to define the space and mood within “The Bedroom.” The subtle interplay of illumination across the room creates a distinctive sense of calm and depth. This deliberate manipulation of light, a technique akin to chiaroscuro, highlights the textures and forms of the interior, contributing to the painting's quiet, contemplative atmosphere.
History & Provenance
Its provenance traces through various notable collections and sales, including those of S.
The painting's history includes documentation by Hofstede de Groot in 1910, who noted its similarity to another version in Karlsruhe while confirming its authenticity. Its provenance traces through various notable collections and sales, including those of S. J. Stinstra, Lord Radstock, and Adrian Hope, before its acquisition by dealer Sedelmeyer. By 1910, it was part of P. A. B. Widener's collection, eventually entering the National Gallery of Art.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Pieter Hendricksz. de Hooch (Dutch: ; also spelled Hoogh or Hooghe; bapt. 20 December 1629 – after 1683), was a Dutch Golden Age painter famous for his genre works of quiet domestic scenes with an open doorway. He was a…
