The Family Concert 1666

Jan Steen, a Dutch artist, painted this scene of a family concert sometime in the mid-17th century. The painting provides a glimpse into the cultural life of the Dutch Golden Age, a time when music-making in the home was a popular pastime among the middle classes. However, beyond the surface of domestic harmony, Steen was a master of conveying subtle messages about the social mores of his time. The scene might appear festive, but the disarray and the various characters’ engagement with their own pursuits rather than communal music-making hint at discord. The inclusion of specific details, like the discarded shoes or the mischievous dog, can be read as symbols of moral laxity. Steen's paintings often reflect on the delicate balance between order and disorder in Dutch society. To fully appreciate the complexities of this work, scholars consult a variety of resources, including period literature, musical scores, and household inventories. This allows us to understand the social context in which Steen was working and the messages his art was intended to convey.