Family Group near a Harpsichord 1739

Cornelis Troost painted "Family Group near a Harpsichord," likely with oil on canvas, sometime in the first half of the 18th century. Looking closely at the family's clothing, we can appreciate the luxurious textiles, the tailoring required to create such fine garments, and the labor involved in their production, from harvesting raw materials to weaving, dyeing, and stitching. Notice the subtle sheen of the woman's gown, likely silk, and the intricate details of the lace trim. The harpsichord itself, a complex piece of engineering made from wood, metal, and other materials, speaks to the era's craftsmanship and trade. It shows a family invested in the arts. But how were they able to afford such objects and accoutrements? Troost's painting invites us to consider not only the artistry and skill involved in its creation but also the broader social and economic context in which it was made. It makes you wonder about the amount of work involved in the family’s lifestyle, from servants making food to tutors teaching children. It blurs the boundaries between fine art and craft and reminds us of the stories of those who produced these everyday materials.