The artwork titled “Woman with infant, serving maid with child,” created by Pieter de Hooch circa 1663, is a fine example of Baroque genre painting. Executed in oil on canvas, the dimensions of the piece are 64 by 76 centimeters. This evocative artwork is housed in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, Austria.
The scene depicted in the artwork showcases an intimate domestic moment, characteristic of genre paintings. It portrays two women and two children within a homely interior. On the right, a woman sits holding an infant, illuminated by the warm glow of a nearby fire. Adjacent to her, a wicker basket and a partially covered bassinet enhance the scene’s maternal atmosphere. To the left, another woman, likely a serving maid, is depicted guiding a child by the hand while holding a bucket. The dark, draped backdrop and the tiled floor contribute to the serene yet grounded ambiance of this Baroque composition. The meticulous depiction of textures and the play of light and shadow are quintessential elements of Pieter de Hooch’s mastery, rendering a quietly profound portrayal of everyday life in the 17th century.
