Art Institute of Chicago

Hearing (De Fiool Speelder)

Cornelis Visscher (Dutch, c. 1629-1658)

Date

c. 1649-58

Medium

Engraving in black on ivory laid paper

Culture

Holland

Department

Prints and Drawings

Institution

Art Institute of Chicago

Cornelis Visscher completed a number of genre scenes during his career that portray satirical figures gathering in jovial settings. The Concert was made after a painting by Adriaen Brouwer, a Flemish artist known for his innovative peasant scenes. Famous for his striking realism, including unidealized drunkards, Brouwer allowed the viewer a glance at a boisterous world that makes no apologies for celebrating. This scene boasts energy and harmony, as the musician’s song narrates the suspicious characters’ actions. Though not his own design, it resonates with Visscher’s vision—one that captured the eccentricities of Dutch life.

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