Family Portrait (detail)
by TILBORGH, Gillis van, Oil on canvas
The painter took care to demonstrate the well-being of the family with extras, props and scenery. The walls are covered with figured wallpaper, servants are eagerly waiting for the master and the mistress’ commands and there is animated activity in the kitchen. It is the task of the dogs playing in the foreground to introduce a modicum of dissonance into this tableau of complete harmony.