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The Life of Man, c. 1665 (oil on canvas)
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The Life of Man, c. 1665 (oil on canvas)
5863943 The Life of Man, c. 1665 (oil on canvas) by Steen, Jan Havicksz. (1625/26-79); 68.5x81.6 cm; Mauritshuis, The Hague, The Netherlands; (add.info.: Not just cheerful conviviality but a message about mortality - a boy is blowing bubbles in the attic next to a skull. Life is wonderful but it will end.); Dutch, out of copyright
Media ID 22587650
© Bridgeman Images
Backgammon Company Drapery Drunk Drunken Drunkenness Dutch Golden Age Eggs Fleeting Flirting Golden Age Hostelry Inebriated Intoxicated Landlady Lewd Lute Memento Mori Mixed Moral Oysters Seventeenth Suggestive Tavern Tiled Tiling Time Transience Tric Trac Vanitas Vanitas Vanitatum Dine Mortality Symbolic Symbols
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The Life of Man, c. 1665
EDITORS COMMENTS
by Jan Havicksz Steen captures the essence of Dutch Golden Age symbolism and moral messages through a seemingly cheerful scene. In this oil on canvas masterpiece, we are transported to a tavern where life's pleasures intertwine with reminders of mortality. At first glance, it appears as a lively gathering with men and women engaged in various activities such as playing backgammon, flirting, eating oysters, and enjoying drinks. However, upon closer inspection, the artist cleverly incorporates subtle symbols that convey deeper meanings. In the attic corner of the painting, a young boy blows bubbles while sitting next to an ominous skull. This juxtaposition reminds us that life is fleeting and transient; although filled with wonder and joy like the bubbles floating in the air, it will eventually come to an end. Steen's work serves as a memento mori - a reminder of our own mortality amidst moments of pleasure. It urges viewers to reflect on their actions and choices while indulging in earthly delights. Through his masterful use of light and composition, Steen invites us into this vibrant yet contemplative world. "The Life of Man" not only showcases his technical skill but also encapsulates the complexities of human existence within its rich layers of symbolism. Displayed at Mauritshuis in The Hague, Netherlands for all to see and ponder upon centuries later; this painting continues to captivate audiences with its timeless message about embracing life's joys while acknowledging its transience.
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