An elegant company - Attributed to Louis de Caullery (1580-1621)

Oil on copper

In this scene we can see an elegant company, playing music in an interior. At the centre we can see a man in lavish clothing, performing a musical piece on his lute. His fingers move deftly across the instrument.
Several other richlyd recessed guests engage in animated conversation, their garments adorned with intricate lace, luxurious fabrics and jewelry. Each member exudes an air of sophistication and grace.

Louis de Caullery was a gifted Flemish artist, known for his genre scenes and landscapes. A common theme in his work was that of the indoor or outdoor banquet with large groups of elegant figures a precursor to the fête champêtre (garden parties) in later French painting. His men are usually depicted with thin legs and pointed shoes. The female figures usually have high haircuts, a long neck, a thin nose and a small mouth.