A Standing Man

Although this painting depicts a single standing man, his generalised features suggest that this was not meant as a portrait. Instead, as is suggested by the man's costume, it is an image of an anonymous standing soldier. In the 17th century soldiers did not yet wear uniforms. This subject relates to the barrack-room scenes Quast painted frequently. The artist is chiefly known for his depictions of tavern scenes with peasants and beggars, usually with caricatured features. Here he continues the tradition that had been established by artists such as Adriaen Brouwer and Adriaen van Ostade.