Artwork

Portrait of Laurens Jacobsz. (....-1603) and his family

Portrait of Laurens Jacobsz. (....-1603) and his family, by Pieter Pietersz the Elder, oil, 1600
Portrait of Laurens Jacobsz. (....-1603) and his family, by Pieter Pietersz the Elder, oil, 1600

Portrait of Laurens Jacobsz. (....-1603) and his family is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Pieter Pietersz the Elder. It dates from 1600 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin. Portrait of Laurens Jacobsz.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of Laurens Jacobsz. and his Family is a painting by Pieter Pietersz the Elder, dated to 1600. The work is part of the collection at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a family of five: Laurens Jacobsz., his wife, and their three sons. The father holds a book, symbolizing learning or piety, while one son holds a pen and paper, indicating education. The mother cradles a baby, emphasizing family and domesticity.

Technique & Style

The family is set against a dark background, with a red tablecloth in the foreground. A wooden cabinet and a curtained window on the right add depth. The use of dark clothing with white collars creates contrast, typical of the period's portraiture.

History & Provenance

Created in 1600 by Pieter Pietersz the Elder, the painting is now housed at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin, though its history between creation and acquisition is not detailed here.

Context

The painting reflects the values of a Dutch middle-class family in the late 16th century, emphasizing education, religion, and family unity. The somber attire and thoughtful poses suggest a Protestant influence.

Legacy

While the painting is characteristic of Pieter Pietersz the Elder's work, its broader impact or influence on subsequent art movements is not specifically highlighted in available information.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Gemäldegalerie Berlin open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.