Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Jordan and Thomas A. Saunders III Lecture
The Rough and the Smooth in 17th-century Dutch Painting
Wed, January 29, 2025, 6:30–7:30 pm
Leslie Cheek Theater
$8 (VMFA members $5)
Tickets: www.VMFA.museum
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. The audience 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 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.
The lecture will be livestreamed at www.VMFA.museum/vmfa-livestrea