307. AFTER THEODORE ROMBOUTS (1597-1637). LUTE PLAYER.

Oil on canvas
110 x 99.5cm.

* After the prime version, c.1620 (Philadelphia Museum of Art)

The painstaking precision of lutenists' concentration was a tempting subject for artists. The musician's focused expression here may signal an amorous intent, enhanced by the association of music's sweet harmony with romance. The symbolism associated with the tankard (for revelry) and the Indian carpet (for culture) also implies a more worldly mood than the music alone.