Artwork
Taste: The five senses by J.M. Molenaer
Taste: The five senses by J.M. Molenaer is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Jan Miense Molenaer. It dates from 1637 and is held in the collection of the Mauritshuis.
About this work
Overview
Jan Miense Molenaer painted 'Taste: The Five Senses' in 1637, a work characteristic of the Dutch Golden Age. The oil painting is part of the Mauritshuis collection.
Subject & Meaning
The scene depicts a man drinking from a jug, accompanied by a woman and boy, in a dimly lit room. The man's indulgence and the boy's pipe suggest a theme of leisure, potentially allegorically representing one of the five senses.
Technique & Style
Molenaer's use of chiaroscuro creates a warm and cozy atmosphere, drawing attention to the central figures. The contrast between the man's red tunic and the woman's dark cloak adds visual interest.
History & Provenance
Molenaer, known for his everyday scenes, worked alongside his wife Judith Leyster, and possibly trained under Frans Hals. His style influenced later artists, such as Jan Steen.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jan Miense Molenaer (1610 – buried 19 September 1668) was a Dutch Golden Age genre painter whose style was a precursor to Jan Steen's work during Dutch Golden Age painting.
