Self Portrait with his Wife Sanneke van Bommel and their two Children 1761 - 1784

This intimate portrait, painted by Dutch artist Hendrik Spilman between 1761 and 1784, depicts the artist himself with his wife Sanneke van Bommel and their two children. The family is arranged in a traditional composition, with Spilman prominently positioned at the center, showcasing his status as head of the household. The inclusion of a cat and a doll, symbolizing domesticity and childhood innocence, adds a touch of warmth and sentimentality to the otherwise formal portrait. This intimate scene, housed in the Rijksmuseum, offers a glimpse into the life of a 18th-century Dutch family, revealing the importance of family unity and the artist's desire to capture his loved ones for posterity.