A Merry Group behind a Balustrade
by HONTHORST, Gerrit van, Oil on canvas, 99 x 139 cm
Honthorst has posed two boisterous musicians in flamboyant attire behind a ledge. Looking out beyond the frame, the male violinist bows his instrument with great vigour while singing. His smiling female companion accompanies him on the lute. Directly behind this engaging couple, an adolescent boy lifts his roemer of wine on high, as if to toast their efforts. The setting of the scene can be identified as a brothel.