Starting on the 27th of June 2007 the National Gallery in London will be hosting an exhibition of Dutch portraits, titled "The Age of Rembrandt and Frans Hals", narating a fascinating period in Dutch art. During the 17th century, after gaining it's independence from Spain, the Dutch Republic entered a "Golden Age", characterized both by economic and cultural richness.
It was one of the best times for the country, as due to the success of the merchants a new middle-class was formed, it's members having an important share of representation in local governements and institutions. Therefore they also supported and encouraged the Dutch artists, as being a patron of arts was something to be very proud of. Among the genres, portraits proved to be the most popular, and the number of commisions quickly increased, as a sign of self-confidence and also for the desire to be represented. The artists were quick to react, and soon developed new types of portraits, in order for them to respond to the demands.
The exhibition at the National Gallery will be organised together with the Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis (The Hague). It will include around 60 works, produced between 1600 - 1680, ranging from small portraits, depicting individuals to grupo portraits, mostly large scale.
Frans Hals, 'Willem Coymans', 1645
Photo : nationalgallery.org.uk
May 2007
