Lesender Knabe 

Frans Hals’s *Lesender Knabe* is a captivating portrait of a young boy engrossed in reading. The painting showcases Hals’s mastery of capturing the energy and vitality of his subjects. The boy’s focused gaze, the lively brushstrokes, and the play of light and shadow bring the moment to life. While the exact date of the painting is unknown, it is likely from the early 17th century, a period when Hals was renowned for his portraits of Dutch citizens. The painting reflects the importance of education and intellectual pursuits in Dutch society during this era.