Cuyp and the Rural Idyll - Truth or Fiction?

The image of sun-warmed cows relaxing in peaceful tranquillity has become an iconic image of the Dutch Republic, which was established in 1648. To what extent do these images convey reality?

Lunchtime talks

On Mondays and Thursdays, focus in on one painting with our talks in the Gallery, or explore wider themes in the collection at our in-depth theatre talks.

Image above: Detail from Aelbert Cuyp, The Large Dort, about 1650