The prayer before the meal 1660

Jan Steen probably painted this scene of a family saying ‘The Prayer Before Meal’ sometime in the 17th Century in the Netherlands. The painting provides us with a glimpse into the daily life of a Dutch family and the era’s religious and social customs. The mother, seated by the window with a young child, represents the domestic sphere, while the father, head bowed, embodies religious piety. Here we can meditate on the gendered division of labor, where women were primarily responsible for childcare and the home, while men led the family in spiritual matters. The inscription hanging on the wall suggests a collective sense of gratitude and acknowledgement of God’s providence. Although painted several centuries ago, Steen’s artwork still invites us to reflect on how faith, family roles, and social structures shape our identities and experiences. It encourages conversations about the personal and communal importance of expressing thankfulness, and how these rituals bind families and communities together.