At Home with Jan Steen

Jan Steen (c. 1626-1679) captured the delightful chaos of family life like no other. His children, wives, friends, and his tavern formed the source of inspiration for his works, which he painted with lively and refined brushstrokes. In Leiden, his most beloved and lesser-known works come together.

In At Home with Jan Steen – 400 Years of Life in the Brewery, Museum De Lakenhal focuses on Steen’s personal environment and the role of his birthplace Leiden. The exhibition offers a surprising glimpse into daily life in the 17th century and reveals the humor and humanity in Steen’s paintings. Children play a striking role in Steen’s work. He was able to depict the spontaneity, the joy, and the sorrow of children in a lifelike manner.

Cover image: Jan Steen, The Fortuneteller, c. 1650-1654, collection Mauritshuis