Merry Drinker

c. 1628 - c. 1630

Meet the ultimate party guest of the Dutch Golden Age. With his rosy cheeks, oversized black hat, and a glass of ale firmly in hand, this guy looks like he's in the middle of telling a hilarious story. Frans Hals used loose, rapid brushstrokes to capture a fleeting moment of joy, which was revolutionary for the 1620s when most portraits were stiff and serious. Some historians even think this 'Merry Drinker' might be a self-portrait of the artist himself, letting his hair down after a long day of painting.

Technique: Oil on canvas

Location: Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

Views: 11

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