Country Kermis 1680 - 1704

Cornelis Dusart painted this scene on panel sometime in the late 17th century. It’s a common enough genre, but the real interest lies in how the paint is worked to create this illusion of a festive scene. Dusart obviously had great facility with his materials. Look how he deftly creates a sense of depth, and the varied textures of the buildings and clothing. The paint is applied in thin layers, allowing light to reflect and refract, resulting in subtle gradations and a sense of realism. Yet this is not just a feat of technical skill. The artist’s labor is clearly evident in the precise brushwork and attention to detail, reflecting the prevailing social values of hard work and craftsmanship. The panel itself is also important. It is smooth, dense, and uniform in color. Dusart used these qualities to his advantage, creating a heightened sense of realism. The choice of materials here wasn’t arbitrary, but rather a conscious decision that speaks to both the artist’s skill, and the labor required to produce this slice of Dutch life.