A Peasant playing a Hurdy-Gurdy to a Woman and Child
- Artist: Nicolaes Berchem
- Date: 1658
- Medium: oil on wood
- Museum: The National Gallery
- Collection record: The National Gallery website
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About this artwork
This is "A Peasant playing a Hurdy-Gurdy to a Woman and Child" by Nicolaes Berchem, painted in 1658. The scene depicts a peaceful family moment, with the mother smiling down at her child, who's being lulled to sleep by a man playing a hurdy-gurdy. Note how the last of the sun catches the mother's wide brow and white shawl.
The musician is likely a travelling artist, dressed in a red shirt, big hat, and sturdy shoes. He's playing his instrument with a smile, creating a soothing atmosphere. The family is placed under the protection of trees, but the distant landscape suggests they may be on a journey.
Berchem's use of textures is remarkable - look at how he contrasts the white linen sleeve of the child with the shaggy coat of the neighbouring goat. The glint of metal on the hurdy-gurdy and the man's rough cloak adds to the sense of depth. This painting radiates peace and comfort, making it a beautiful representation of Dutch art from this period.
See it in person
A Peasant playing a Hurdy-Gurdy to a Woman and Child hangs in The National Gallery on Trafalgar Square, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
