dou33 Gerrit Dou (1613-1675)

The composition presents a domestic interior framed by an arched architectural element, creating a sense of depth and enclosure. Here we see two young girls engaged in what appears to be a game involving scales and produce. The older girl, positioned on the left, attentively observes the balance of the scales, while the younger one places items – seemingly apples or pears – into the basket on the right side of the table.
The setting is richly detailed with an abundance of objects that contribute to the overall atmosphere. Dried herbs and sausages hang from the ceiling, suggesting a household focused on preservation and sustenance. A draped curtain partially obscures the view beyond the window, hinting at a world outside this intimate space. The presence of caged birds – one near the scales and another suspended from the ceiling – introduces a motif of captivity and observation.
The table itself is laden with various foodstuffs: a pitcher, a plate of what appear to be pastries, and jars filled with preserved goods. A decorative putto sculpture adorns the front edge of the table, adding an element of playful ornamentation. The lighting is carefully orchestrated; it illuminates the girls and the objects on the table while leaving the background in shadow, drawing attention to the central action.
Subtleties within the painting suggest a deeper narrative. The scales, typically associated with justice and fairness, are employed here in a seemingly trivial game, perhaps hinting at a broader commentary on societal structures or the complexities of human interaction. The girls focused expressions convey a sense of earnestness despite the playful nature of their activity. The abundance of food could be interpreted as a symbol of prosperity and domestic contentment, while the caged birds might represent a longing for freedom or an awareness of limitations.
The overall effect is one of quiet observation – a glimpse into a private moment within a well-ordered household, imbued with symbolic resonance that invites contemplation beyond its immediate subject matter.