Artwork

Interior of an inn with an old man amusing himself with the landlady and two men playing backgammon, known as 'Two kinds of games'

Interior of an inn with an old man amusing himself with the landlady and two men playing backgammon, known as 'Two kinds of games' is an unspecified painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Unknown. It dates from 1670 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. This 17th-century Dutch painting depicts a lively interior scene of an inn, capturing the everyday lives of its patrons in a candid manner.

About this work

Overview

This 17th-century Dutch painting depicts a lively interior scene of an inn, capturing the everyday lives of its patrons in a candid manner.

Subject & Meaning

The scene contrasts two forms of 'play': a flirtatious old man engaging with the landlady, and two men immersed in a backgammon game, highlighting the coexistence of social interaction and leisure activities.

Technique & Style

The artist employed a realistic approach, avoiding idealization in favor of portraying the subjects' natural states, including wrinkles and clutter, creating a sense of unposed authenticity.

History & Provenance

While the exact artist and date are not specified, the work is characteristic of 17th-century Dutch Golden Age painting, with the Rijksmuseum housing similar works of this era.

Context

The setting, complete with a hearth, lute, and discarded food shells, evokes a typical Dutch tavern of the time, offering a glimpse into the daily life and ambiance of such establishments.