Who painted Prayer before the Meal?

Prayer before the Meal was painted by Jan Steen in 1669.

Where can I see Prayer before the Meal?

Prayer before the Meal is held by Philadelphia Museum of Art.

What movement is Prayer before the Meal?

Prayer before the Meal is associated with Dutch Golden Age.

Can I buy a print of Prayer before the Meal?

Museum-quality prints of Prayer before the Meal are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Prayer before the Meal

Jan Steen , 1669

Prayer before the Meal is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Jan Steen. It dates from 1669 and is held in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Prayer before the Meal is a 1669 oil painting by Jan Steen, held at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a family gathered around a table, preparing to eat. The scene is characterized by a sense of quiet contemplation, with the family's serious faces suggesting a moment of prayer or reflection before the meal.

Technique & Style

The artist employs chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of depth and atmosphere. A small window is the sole source of light, illuminating the scene and highlighting the figures.

Context

The painting is a genre scene, capturing a moment of everyday life in a simple and unidealized way. The family's simple clothing and the domestic setting add to the sense of ordinariness.