Choice between Richness and Youth 1663

"Choice between Richness and Youth" (1663) by Dutch Golden Age painter Jan Steen depicts a scene of a young woman presented with a choice. An older man, likely a suitor, is displaying a chest of riches, while a younger man sits beside her, representing the allure of youth. Steen's characteristic genre scenes often satirized the follies of human nature and societal norms, making this painting a commentary on the timeless conflict between wealth and love. The painting's rich color palette and detailed interiors contribute to its visual appeal, placing viewers right in the middle of this compelling moment of decision.