Jan Steen. - Geb. omstreeks 1640, Overl. 1678 1850 - 1881

This print of Jan Steen by Dirk Noothoven van Goor offers us a glimpse into the life and times of the famous 17th-century Dutch painter. Though undated, it likely reflects the reverence for Steen in later centuries. Presented in a magazine format, the print suggests an intention to educate and entertain. We see scenes of Steen in domestic settings, perhaps referencing his own famously chaotic household. These vignettes offer insight into the social fabric of the Dutch Golden Age, an era of both prosperity and social tension. The choice to depict Steen through scenes from his life, rather than as a formal portrait, emphasizes the emotional and personal dimensions of his work, hinting at the stories and characters he brought to life on canvas. How do these small scenes shape our understanding of the domestic sphere during Steen's time, and what stories do they tell about the role of the artist in society?