The young gentry at play. Northern Netherlandish scenes of merry companies 1610-1645.. Cet article n’est pas disponible.The young gentry at play. Northern Netherlandish scenes of merry companies 1610-1645.

Leiden, Primavera Pers, 2005. 296 pp. Num. ills, incl. 29 col. ills. Softcover. 8vo.This book examines the rise and development of the genre of 'merry company' (or 'geselschapje') in the Northern Netherlands during the first half of the 17th century. Kolfin analyzes paintings of richly and elegantly dressed young people enjoying themselves drinking, making music, and flirting, often set in opulent interiors or gardens. In contrast to earlier iconological approaches that viewed such scenes purely as moralistic warnings against sin, Kolfin argues that they were primarily intended as lighthearted entertainment and fashion statements for the urban elite. The book highlights the crucial role of artists such as Willem Buytewech, Esaias van de Velde, and Dirck Hals in establishing this genre in cities like Haarlem. Kolfin investigates how the art market, production methods, and the way paintings were hung in the home influenced the popularity of these scenes.