A Woman Playing the Theorbo-Lute and a Cavalier
In this intimate scene, a young woman strums a lute while playing a duet with her suitor. Songbooks, such as the one lying on the table here, were common lovers’ gifts at the time. The watch lying alongside it may symbolize temperance, or perhaps the fleeting nature of the affair.
Artwork Details
- Title: A Woman Playing the Theorbo-Lute and a Cavalier
- Artist: Gerard ter Borch the Younger (Dutch, Zwolle 1617–1681 Deventer)
- Date: ca. 1658
- Medium: Oil on wood
- Dimensions: 14 1/2 x 12 3/4 in. (36.8 x 32.4 cm)
- Classification: Paintings
- Credit Line: Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913
- Object Number: 14.40.617
- Curatorial Department: European Paintings
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