David Vinckboons (Mechelen 1576-c. 1633 Amsterdam)

The prime versions of this composition are considered to be two works signed 'P. BREVGHEL', both on panel, one in Dessau, Staatliche Kunstsammlungen, Gemäldegalerie (47 x 74 cm.); the other in The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (50.8 x 77.8 cm.). The subject belongs to the cheerful Flemish tradition of rustic celebrations -- kermesses, wedding feasts and dances. The age-old custom recorded in the present subject is that of the Whitsun Bride. In celebration of Whitsuntide (the week following the feast of Whitsun, or Pentecost), Flemish children traditionally gather the Pinksterbloem, or 'Whitsun flower', to adorn a girl selected as the Whitsun Bride. The Bride and her attendants then parade through the village streets, singing songs about the flower to be rewarded with treats at the village homes.