Sound/Geluid

String instruments, like the violin and viola da gamba, enjoyed widespread popularity in the seventeenth-century Dutch Republic; however, their distinct sounds created wildly different associations. Jan Steen, who made a career of comical scenes, used music to engage his audience. The grinning violinist has ascended atop the brawling crowd clearly using the sharp notes of his instrument to pierce through the sounds of laughter and cracking furniture.

On the other hand, the elegant and stately viola da gamba, had a rich sound and higher cost which landed it in the homes of the upper classes. Michiel Van Musscher’s musician plays against a backdrop of silken curtains and marble floors but has thoughtfully tilted the instrument towards the viewer so they can feel the vibrations moving through their bodies.

While both of these scenes show the tendency to define social differences with music, notice that the artists painted open windows and doors. They recognized that music moved beyond these boundaries to reach a broader audience.

J.S.