The artwork titled “The company of Captain Reinier Reael and Lieutenant Cornelis Michielsz. Blaeuw, known as the ‘Meagre Company’” was created by the renowned artist Frans Hals between 1633 and 1637. Executed in oil on canvas, this piece is a quintessential example of Baroque portraiture.
The artwork portrays a group of men in an indoor setting, characterized by their lavish early 17th-century attire, complete with elaborate lace collars and richly adorned uniforms. The figures are arranged in a semi-formal stance yet exhibit a sense of camaraderie and individuality. The painting captures the distinct personalities of the officers through the adept use of light and shadow, highlighting the textures of their clothing and their expressive facial features. The overall composition, with its dynamic arrangement and attention to detail, exemplifies Frans Hals’ mastery in the portrayal of group portraits during the Baroque period.
