An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
Portrait of a Boy in Classical Dress with a Bullfinch and Spanielc. 1670
Artist: Nicolaes Maes
Dutch, 1632/34 - 1693
little boy with shoulder-length blonde hair and brown eyes, wearing a green cap with a tall white feather and a pink skirted garment with a white blouse underneath and a red cloth over his shoulders, holding a brown finch on his extended PL index finger; finch has a ribbon attached to its leg, which the boy holds in his PR hand; jumping brown and white spaniel with its mouth open at boy's PR hip; image in an oval with brown border
16 11/16 × 11 11/16 in. (42.39 × 29.69 cm) (sight)
22 5/8 × 17 11/16 × 2 in. (57.47 × 44.93 × 5.08 cm) (outer frame)
Oil on panel
Painting
Netherlands
17th century
The Walter H. and Valborg P. Ude Memorial Fund
In a sunlit room, where the gentle hum of life dances through the air, a portrait draws the eye. It is a small canvas, but in its limited dimensions lies an expansive story. A boy stands at the center, his gaze confident and direct, welcoming every beholder with an unwavering certainty that echoes a profound truth. His attire is a feast for the eyes—rich colors and textures weave together, enveloping him in vibrancy that sparks curiosity and admiration.
This moment captured in paint whispers of lessons not just for children, but for all who dare to listen. The boy’s calm assurance radiates from his face and posture. He presents himself as a beacon of discipline, a quiet promise that suggests he knows the delicate balance between freedom and restraint. The chaos of childhood is hinted at by the playful canine at his side, a wild companion whose spirit dances on the edge of mischief. Yet, the boy stands firm, embodying the strength required to conquer such unruliness.
Beside him, a pet bullfinch perched patiently—a poignant reminder of the virtues of control and composure. The quiet strength of both the boy and his feathered friend speaks volumes about the upbringing of children; it is an allegory painted with precision. The harmony of the scene invites the viewer not just to gaze, but to reflect on the power of discipline wedded with love. In this peaceful moment, the boy isn’t merely a subject of a portrait. He becomes a symbol of triumph over chaos, resonating with the hope that lies within us all.
About the artist
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