David Leeuw with his Family, Abraham van den Tempel, 1671
oil on canvas, h 190cm × w 200cm More details
During the 17th century music making signified harmony. The wealthy merchant David Leeuw thus had himself and his family portrayed making music as an expression of harmonious family life. Their unity is underscored by Leeuw’s proud hand gesture, and his wife’s gentle embrace of their children. They also convey their piety by performing religious music (the notes and text are legible).
