An exhibit opening today of Jan Steen’s history paintings is making history of its own by including a painting newly-authenticated as the work of the 17th-century Dutch genre master. The exhibit is at the Mauritshuis in The Hague until May 13.
The painting, the Mocking of Samson, was long believed to be either a work by an apprentice in his studio, or a copy of a work by Steen. The painting is owned by the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, and has just undergone conservation while it was being examined. It’s unusual in that it has never been relined or removed from its original stretcher.
Although Steen is best known for his paintings of Dutch households and scenes of daily life, he also painted many scenes from the Bible, classical mythology and history, They are referred to as ‘history paintings’ because the sources were regarded as historic. But they also show off Steen’s typical humorous touches and anecdotes within the stories.
Photos: Mauritshuis, Den Haag
