Pieter de Hooch’s painting “A Man Offering a Glass of Wine to a Woman” is a classic example of Baroque genre painting. Created around 1654-55, this oil on canvas masterpiece measures 71 x 59 cm and is located in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia. It portrays an elegantly dressed man offering a glass of wine to a woman while being accompanied by a servant-girl.
The composition is characterized by its splendid use of color and light, with the main light source emanating from the window on the left side of the room. The play between light and shadow enhances depth and dimensionality, as can be seen in the intricate details found throughout the scene. The couple’s body language conveys intimacy while maintaining social decorum — her perfectly placed fan adds to her allure.
The piece was misattributed to Gabriel Metsu at one point but has since been recognized as one of Pieter de Hooch’s authentically autographed works. Regarded as one of his finest paintings, it showcases de Hooch’s masterful technical skill with brushwork and attention to detail. Overall, “A Man Offering a Glass of Wine to a Woman” is not only visually captivating but also provides insight into Dutch domestic life during this time period — especially their relationship with wine culture which was important for trade business.
