The Farrier 1650 - 1656

Aert van der Neer painted "The Farrier" with oil on canvas sometime in the mid-17th century. Its nocturnal scene invites us to consider the social conditions that shaped its creation and reception. The Dutch Golden Age, marked by unprecedented economic prosperity and cultural flourishing, was also a time of stark social stratification. Van der Neer’s painting reflects this duality. On one hand, the farrier represents the essential trades that underpinned Dutch society. On the other hand, the dark, moody atmosphere and the humble setting suggest a world far removed from the opulence. The painting can be interpreted as a commentary on the social structures of its time. The art market was open, allowing the urban middle classes to purchase and consume paintings. Archival research into Dutch art markets will give a deeper understanding of this painting's meaning.