Artwork

The Music Lesson

The Music Lesson, by Jacob Ochtervelt, oil, 1671
The Music Lesson, by Jacob Ochtervelt, oil, 1671

The Music Lesson is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Jacob Ochtervelt. It dates from 1671 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

The Music Lesson is a 1671 oil painting by Jacob Ochtervelt, held at the Art Institute of Chicago.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts a woman playing a violin and a man listening with a recorder, accompanied by a small dog and a cello. The presence of sheet music suggests a collaborative musical practice.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of light is notable, with careful attention to its effects on the subjects' faces and instruments, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.

Context

The painting employs chiaroscuro, a technique using strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and mood.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacob Ochtervelt

Artist

Jacob Ochtervelt

Jacob Ochtervelt (1634–1682) was a Dutch Golden Age painter.