The artwork, titled “Fisher Boy,” was created by Frans Hals between the years 1630 and 1632. Rendered in oil on canvas, it belongs to the Baroque art movement. Measuring 72 by 36 centimeters, this portrait, also categorized as a tronie, resides in the National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.
The artwork vividly depicts a young boy engaged in the act of fishing. The boy is portrayed with a cheerful expression, his face slightly flushed, suggesting contentment or joy. He wears a red cap and a dark jacket with visible red undersleeves, adding a touch of color and vibrancy to the composition. In his hands, he holds a basket brimming with fish, one of which he appears to be displaying proudly. The background is a neutral, understated backdrop, allowing the viewer’s focus to remain on the boy’s earnest expression and the details of his attire and basket. The artist’s use of light and shadow, characteristic of the Baroque style, enhances the three-dimensionality of the subject, lending depth and texture to the scene. The artwork captures a moment of simple, everyday life, imbued with warmth and realism, characteristic of Hals’ portraits.
