The Bean King (The King Drinks) 1638

Jacob Jordaens' "The Bean King (The King Drinks)" (1638) is a lively scene depicting a festive gathering. The painting, now in the Hermitage Museum, showcases Jordaens' mastery of capturing the energy and boisterousness of a group of revelers. The central figure, a jovial old man crowned with a wreath of beans, raises his goblet in a toast. Surrounding him are a motley crew of men, women, and children, including a woman holding a baby and a dog, all engaged in lively conversation and gestures, embodying the exuberance of the Dutch Golden Age. The painting’s rich palette and dynamic composition create a sense of immediacy, drawing viewers into the heart of the celebration.