Berwick Art Appreciation - Thursday 12 Feb '26

A little later than usual, the information for the forthcoming presentation, where I will discuss with the assistance of excellent images, the role of women in the Dutch society of the mid 17th century, everything related to marriage, domesticity, motherhood and especially the specific role of music and the symbolism of musical instruments in courtship; with a dash of the bawdy humour of Jan Steen.

There will be a particular emphasis on the masters of Leiden and Delft, with their wonderful illusions of space, light and materials, Gerrit Dou, Gabriël Metsu, Gerard ter Borch, Pieter de Hooch and of course Johannes Vermeer. All in all, images of some of the most beautiful works of the Dutch Golden Age. And I will of course devote some time to the persuasive conclusions of Andrew Graham-Dixon’s recently published, ‘Vermeer, a Life Lost and Found’.

Paintings of the role of Dutch Golden Age women, were frequently associated with domesticity and virtue, reflecting the deeply ingrained values of the Dutch Republic. However, there were just as many, depicting sublime images of courtship and music making, by Gerrard ter Borch, Gabriel Metsu and of course Johannes Vermeer. With unforgettable images, we will explore, the magical world depicted in these paintings.