Artwork

The leavetaking of Captain Hendrik de Sandra (1619-1707), sent off by his wife and children

The leavetaking of Captain Hendrik de Sandra (1619-1707), sent off by his wife and children is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Pieter van Anraedt. It dates from 1661 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Pieter van Anraedt's 1661 oil painting depicts the emotional departure of Captain Hendrik de Sandra, surrounded by his family and entourage outside a grand stone building.

Subject & Meaning

The scene conveys a poignant moment of familial separation, as Captain de Sandra bids farewell to his wife, children, and servants, implying his departure for a journey, likely military or maritime, given his rank.

Technique & Style

Van Anraedt employs dramatic chiaroscuro, juxtaposing the woman's stark white dress against muted tones and ominous clouds, while meticulous detail characterizes the depiction of figures, architecture, and nature.

History & Provenance

Created in 1661, the painting is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection, highlighting Van Anraedt's contribution to 17th-century Dutch historical and domestic scene painting.

Context

Reflecting the Dutch Golden Age, the work combines the everyday with the dramatic, typical of Van Anraedt's approach to capturing detailed, relatable moments from life.

Legacy

The painting showcases Van Anraedt's ability to balance the intimate with the monumental, influencing the representation of emotional, everyday scenes in subsequent Dutch art.