A Goldsmith Melting Down a Woman’s Jewellery in the Presence of a Notary, ‘The Alchemist’ c. 1668 - 1670

Jan Steen made this oil on canvas painting called "The Alchemist," sometime in the 17th century. It depicts a goldsmith melting down a woman’s jewelry, presumably for cash, while a notary looks on. The process of goldsmithing is front and center here. Steen has clearly observed the scene closely. You can almost smell the coal burning, feel the heat radiating from the small furnace. Note the humble workshop setting, with the jug and earthenware pot at the ready – quite a contrast to the precious materials being worked. Goldsmithing requires tremendous skill. It’s hard to imagine now, but in the 17th century, it was a highly valued craft. This painting reminds us of the relationship between labor and value, where skill and raw materials meet. It makes you wonder about the social dynamics at play. Who profits from this transaction, and at what cost?