Regents of the Aalmoezeniersweeshuis Orphanage in Amsterdam, 1729 1729

In 1729, Cornelis Troost captured the Regents of the Aalmoezeniersweeshuis Orphanage in Amsterdam on canvas with oil paints. The texture achieved through layering thin glazes of oil paint creates a smooth, almost porcelain-like surface, allowing for meticulous detail in the rendering of fabrics, faces, and architectural elements. The way Troost handled the oil paint is crucial, its fluidity allowing for subtle gradations of light and shadow, contributing to the lifelike quality of the figures. Given the context, this painting serves not only as a record, but as a carefully constructed display of power. The regents are arranged in a way that emphasizes their control and authority, highlighting their roles as administrators of charity. This reflects the social dynamics of the time, where class distinctions were sharply defined and wealth was associated with moral virtue. By understanding the materials and techniques employed by Troost, we gain a deeper appreciation for the social and cultural significance embedded within this group portrait.