The Rough and the Smooth in 17th-century Dutch Painting
With Dr. Ronni Baer, the Allen R. Adler, Class of 1967, Distinguished Curator and Lecturer at the Princeton University Art Museum

Wed, Jan 29, 2025
6:30–7:30 pm
$8 (VMFA members $5)
Leslie Cheek Theater

Join us for the inaugural Jordan and Thomas A. Saunders III Lecture, presented by Dr. Ronni Baer, the Allen R. Adler, Class of 1967, Distinguished Curator and Lecturer at the Princeton University Art Museum. Dr. Baer will explore work by 17th-century Dutch artists Rembrandt van Rijn, Frans Hals, and Gerrit Dou. Paintings by Hals and Dou are currently on view in the Saunders Collection. 

In the 17th century, Dutch art theorists discussed two distinct styles of painting: the neat or smooth and the rough or loose. Neat painting was believed to engage the viewer for a long time, delighting the eye. By contrast, the rough style was considered “modern” and said to have the power to move the observer. Participants will be encouraged to look closely at works of art and consider the choices the artists made at the easel.

The Jordan and Thomas A. Saunders III Distinguished Lecture is presented by a scholar annually to foster the study and appreciation of European art. It is made possible through the generous support of the Saunders family.

Livestream available

RESCHEDULED: The lecture will now take place on Wed, Jan 29, 2025. It was originally scheduled for Wed, Sep 25, 2024. 

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IMAGE Man Writing in an Artist’s Studio, 1631–32, Gerrit Dou (Dutch, 1613–1675), oil on panel. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Jordan and Thomas A Saunders III Collection