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The Concert, by Gerard van Honthorst, oil, 1628

Dominant colour

Overview

The Concert is a 1628 oil by Gerard van Honthorst, a Dutch Golden Age work, held at Borghese Collection.

Who painted this?
Gerard van Honthorst
When & what style?
1628 · Dutch Golden Age
Where can I see it?
Borghese Collection

About this work

This painting depicts a lively scene of four people gathered around a table, engaged in music and conversation. A man on the left plays a cello, while a woman in the center holds a book, possibly sheet music. Another woman sits across from her, and a man stands behind them, all dressed in 17th-century attire. The table is set with a white cloth, plates, and a fruit bowl, adding to the sense of warmth and intimacy. The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a dramatic contrast between light and dark, drawing the viewer's attention to the central figures. The overall mood is one of joy and camaraderie, as if the group is lost in the pleasure of music and each other's company. For more on the artist's innovative use of light and shadow, explore the works of Gerard van Honthorst.

About the artist

Portrait of Gerard van Honthorst
Artist

Gerard van Honthorst

Gerard "Gerrit" van Honthorst (4 November 1592 – 27 April 1656) was a Dutch Golden Age painter who became known for his depiction of artificially lit scenes, eventually receiving the Italian nickname Gherardo delle Notti ("Gerard of the Nights").

See the richer artist page

More by Gerard van Honthorst

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