The artwork, titled “The company of Captain Reinier Reael and Lieutenant Cornelis Michielsz. Blaeuw, known as the ‘Meagre Company’ (detail),” was created by artist Frans Hals between 1633 and 1637. Executed in oil on canvas, this piece belongs to the Baroque art movement and falls under the portrait genre.
In this detailed portrayal, Frans Hals depicts a group of men, all clad in elaborate 17th-century attire. The central figures, Captain Reinier Reael and Lieutenant Cornelis Michielsz. Blaeuw, stand prominently amongst their company, characterized by their distinctive poses and attire that signifies their rank. The commander dons an elaborate outfit with a bright sash while engaging with those around him, bringing a sense of unity and camaraderie among the subjects. The use of light and shadow plays a significant role in highlighting different aspects of their ornate clothing and facial expressions, contributing to the dynamic and lifelike representation characteristic of Baroque portraiture. The composition effectively captures the nuances of group interaction and individual character, a testament to Hals’s mastery in realistic and expressive portraiture.
