The village fair

In the work of Adriaen van Ostade, genre scenes are conveyed in a wholly different spirit. The artist observes the everyday life of the poor, capturing their intimate moments amidst their family and, with a sense of empathy, he also records human vices. This village fair scene reflects the visual tradition of German masters and Pieter Bruegel; however, the artist’s relaxed style and the carefully composed picture planes show an inspiration by Rembrandt.