Portrait of the Family of Dirck Bas Jacobsz, Burgomaster of Amsterdam 1634 - 1635

Dirck Dircksz. van Santvoort created this group portrait of the family of Dirck Bas Jacobsz in the 17th century, using oil paint on canvas. Oil paint is a versatile medium, but it also demands expertise; the grinding of pigments, mixing of oils, and layering of glazes all require training. Here, the sheen and depth achieved by van Santvoort speak to his mastery of the technique. But it's not only the artist's labor we see, it is that of the tailors, lace makers, and jewelers who created the family's garments and adornments. The subdued palette and formal poses reflect the family’s status and wealth. Sumptuary laws of the time dictated the kinds of materials and garments different classes could wear. The fact that the family were able to commission this painting and so lavishly decorate themselves is testament to their place in the emerging mercantile class in Amsterdam. Looking at this artwork from the perspective of materials and making offers a window into the economic and social realities of the time, reminding us that art is always connected to the world of labor, production, and consumption.