Woman at the Virginal, Jan Miense Molenaer, 1630 - 1640
oil on panel, h 38.5cm × w 29.5cm More details
A young woman plays the virginal in an elegant interior. Painted on the inside of the instrument’s lid is a landscape with an amorous couple strolling. Music brings people together – so is the musician inviting us to play along with her? As it happens, a young man is just entering the room. Perched atop the virginal is a monkey, who warns against the dangers of carnal desire.