The Merry Drinker

oil on canvas, c. 1629

This work is a pinnacle of Hals’ bold and loose ‘rough’ style. The brushstrokes criss-cross the canvas, creating the impression of rapid execution as well as suggesting movement. The sitter, likely a civic guardsman or a military man based on his attire, is just about to raise his glass to toast with us.

  • Artwork typepainting
  • Object numberSK-A-135
  • Dimensionsheight 81 cm x width 66.5 cm