17th-century Dutch Painting

17th-century Dutch painting, often referred to as the Dutch Golden Age, is marked by a surge in artistic output following the country's independence from Spain. Artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Hals excelled in realism, capturing everyday life, landscapes, and portraits with exquisite detail and light. This period showcased genres like still lifes, genre scenes, and landscapes, reflecting the burgeoning prosperity of Dutch society. The use of chiaroscuro (light and shadow) and innovative compositions emphasized texture and depth, making paintings not only visually striking but also rich in meaning and social commentary.