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Nicolaes Maes, also known as Nicolaes Maas, was a Dutch Golden Age painter of genre and portraits. Born in Dordrecht in January 1634, Maes was the son of Gerrit Maes, a prosperous merchant, and Ida Herman Claesdr. In about 1648, he went to Amsterdam, where he entered Rembrandt's studio. Before his return to Dordrecht in 1653, Maes painted a few Rembrandtesque genre pictures, with life-size figures and in a deep glowing scheme of color.
Early Work and Influences
Maes' early style closely resembled that of Rembrandt, with whom he studied. His paintings from this period, such as The Reverie at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, The Card Players at the National Gallery, and Children with a Goat Carriage, showcase his mastery of color and composition. These works were often attributed to Rembrandt, demonstrating Maes' skill in emulating his master's style.
Mature Style and Subjects
In his best period, from 1655 to 1665, Maes devoted himself to domestic genre on a smaller scale, retaining the magic of color he had learned from Rembrandt. He rarely treated scriptural subjects, instead focusing on everyday life. His favorite subjects were women spinning, reading the Bible, or preparing a meal. Maes was particularly fascinated with the subject of lacemaking, creating almost a dozen versions on this theme.
Maes' work can be found in various museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the National Gallery. His paintings are also available for viewing on WahooArt.com, where art enthusiasts can explore his oeuvre in detail. For more information on Nicolaes Maes, visit Wikipedia.
Nicolaes Maes died in Amsterdam in 1693, leaving behind a legacy as one of the prominent painters of the Dutch Golden Age. His work continues to inspire art lovers and scholars alike, offering a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people during a fascinating period in history. |
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