Cornelis de Man (Delft 1621-1706)

Following his nine year sojourn in Paris and Italy, Cornelis de Man returned to Delft in 1654, where he quickly assumed the position as Director of the Guild of St. Luke (1657-1696). Church interiors by de Man are particularly rare, with only thirty known extant by the artist. Charming elements of narrative in the composition reflect the influence of Johannes Vermeer and Pieter de Hooch. The jubilant children in the foreground, figures engaged in conversation and the playful dogs invite onlookers into this lively scene.