Thomas Hees and his Servant Thomas and Nephews Jan and Andries Hees 1687

Michiel van Musscher painted Thomas Hees, his servant, and nephews, at an unknown date using oil on canvas. This painting offers a window into the social and economic structures of the Dutch Golden Age. The opulence in the portrait is striking, highlighting the wealth derived from trade and colonial activities of the time. The inclusion of a Black servant is particularly telling of the colonial power dynamics at play. The painting’s visual codes serve to reinforce the status of Thomas Hees. Made in the Netherlands, this work reflects the society's complex relationship with global commerce and its impact on class structures. Art institutions of the time were often deeply entwined with these economic realities. To fully understand this piece, exploring archival records related to Dutch trade and colonial history is essential. This allows us to interpret how art both reflected and shaped the social norms of its time.