An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Merry Company on a TerraceJan Steen
Dutch, Leiden 1626–1679 Leiden
ca. 1670
55 1/2 x 51 3/4 in. (141 x 131.4 cm)
Painting
Oil on canvas
European Paintings
Fletcher Fund, 1958
In Jan Steen's "Merry Company on a Terrace," the scene bursts with life and joy. A lively group gathers under a verdant pergola, sharing laughter and merriment. In the center, a lady dressed in soft blue leans back, seemingly enjoying the playful antics around her, her relaxed posture inviting viewers into this cheerful atmosphere.
Various characters engage in different activities: a man playing a lute serenades the company while a child pulls a dog on a leash, symbolizing the innocence and delight found in simple pleasures. The expressions on their faces range from amusement to joy, capturing a moment of celebration and camaraderie.
Color amplifies the mood; bright hues contrast with the lush greenery above, creating a vivid tapestry that draws the viewer's eye. The light streaming through the leaves adds depth, illuminating the scene and enhancing the cheerful spirit. Each character contributes to a sense of community, inviting us to imagine their stories and share in their happiness, making the artwork an eternal celebration of togetherness.
About the artist
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