H Beard Print Collection
1660
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1660
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
The painting shows a woman playing a mandolin and a man dressed as Harlequin. The woman is portrayed as a coquette, which was a common character in theater and art. This character type was often used to depict a playful and charming woman, which adds a layer of interest to the print. The use of shading and contrast in this print is similar to the technique used by artists who work with chiaroscuro.