The Harpsichord Lesson 1660s

"The Harpsichord Lesson" by Jan Steen, painted in the 1660s, depicts a young woman receiving a music lesson from an older man. The scene is set in a domestic interior, with a harpsichord in the foreground and a framed painting on the wall. Steen, known for his genre paintings, often depicted scenes of everyday life, capturing moments of humor and social commentary. This work is characteristic of his style, with its attention to detail and use of light and shadow to create a sense of depth and realism. The painting invites viewers to consider the social dynamics of music education and the relationship between teacher and student in 17th-century Dutch society.