Woman Playing the Virginal — Jan Miense Molenaer

Jan Miense Molenaer. Painted c. 1637.

During the 17th century, making music at home was very popular and many wealthy people played a musical instrument. Here, a woman plays a virginal while two children listen attentively. A man is just entering the room. The painting is full of love symbolism: making music was a common metaphor for love, while the chained monkey on the instrument serves as a warning against lust.

From the collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Currently on display in Specialisation in painting, Main building, 17th Century.

panel, oil paint (paint) · Original size: 29.6 × 38.6 cm · On loan from the City of Amsterdam (A. van der Hoop Bequest)

Print: 29.6 × 38.6 cm, printed on Hahnemühle FineArt archival cotton paper. Museum-grade reproduction quality, true to the colours and detail of the original work.

Frame (optional): a custom-made wooden frame in a matte black finish, cut to the exact dimensions of this print, with an off-white passe-partout mat and protective glazing. Ready to hang.

Source: https://id.rijksmuseum.nl/200107763. Image released under CC0 by the Rijksmuseum.