After Nicolaes Maes (1634-1693) - Dutch School Oil Woman Scraping Parsnips

Description

This tender 19th century genre scene after Nicolaes Maes (1634-1693) depicts a Dutch woman in traditional dress preparing parsnips, whilst her daughter stands beside her in careful observation. The artist uses soft, diffused brushstrokes and gentle lighting to convey a sense of domestic simplicity. Unsigned. Well presented in a swept gilt frame with delicate floral motifs. On canvas on stretchers.

Condition

Discolouration to the varnish. Fine craquelure and light abrasions throughout. Inspection under UV light reveals small areas of restoration. Wear to the frame including scuffs, chips and fine cracking. The frame has undergone previous restoration, including a fill to the right edge.

Size

28 x 23cm (11.0" x 9.1")
Framed Size: 47 x 42cm (18.5" x 16.5")

Artist Biography

Nicolaes Maes (1634-1693) was a Dutch painter associated with the Dutch Golden Age. Born in Dordrecht, he was a pupil of Rembrandt, whose influence is evident in his early works. Maes initially specialized in religious and historical subjects but later became best known for his genre paintings depicting domestic life, particularly scenes of women at home and everyday family activities. In the 1670s, Maes moved to Amsterdam, where he gained considerable success as a portraitist for wealthy clients. His style evolved over time from the dramatic chiaroscuro of Rembrandt’s influence to a lighter, more polished approach, characterized by careful attention to detail and rich color. Maes’s work contributed significantly to the Dutch tradition of genre painting, bridging the intimacy of domestic scenes with the elegance of portraiture.