Nimfen rusten na de jacht 1685

Gerard de Lairesse made this print of nymphs resting after the hunt, in the Netherlands. De Lairesse, a leading artist in the Dutch Golden Age, shows us an idealised vision of women in nature. Classical imagery like this was very popular amongst the wealthy. It offered a way to show off their knowledge and good taste, while also reflecting particular social ideals. The scene is filled with references to classical art, such as the poses of the figures. But how might the Dutch context have shaped this image? Well, the Netherlands in the 17th century was a major centre for art dealing. Artists like De Lairesse needed to find ways to appeal to collectors, flattering their sense of themselves as refined and educated individuals. To understand this print fully, we can consult historical documents, studies of Dutch social life, and other artistic depictions. It’s through this research we can start to understand the social and institutional contexts that shaped De Lairesse's work.