Werff, Pieter van der – Bellen blazen, 1700-1722 Rijksmuseum: part 3

The composition presents a scene steeped in classical allusion and domestic intimacy. A woman, draped in a blue cloth that partially reveals her shoulder, occupies the left side of the canvas. She sits upon a stone ledge, cradling a chubby infant in her arms. Her gaze is directed towards a second child, positioned to her right, who appears to be blowing bubbles with a small pipe or reed.
The lighting is dramatic and focused, characteristic of the Dutch Golden Age style. A strong light source illuminates the figures, creating deep shadows that recede into the background. This chiaroscuro effect emphasizes the tactile quality of their skin and drapery while contributing to an atmosphere of quiet contemplation. The woman’s expression is one of gentle observation, her features softened by the diffused light.
The second child, clad in a red tunic, is rendered with a playful energy that contrasts with the womans stillness. He seems entirely absorbed in his activity, oblivious to the maternal gaze directed towards him. The bubbles themselves are not explicitly depicted as spheres; instead, they appear as shimmering distortions of the air, suggesting their ephemeral nature.
Behind the figures, a formal garden unfolds, anchored by an ornate stone urn or fountain. This architectural element establishes a sense of order and refinement, hinting at a privileged setting. The foliage is rendered in dark greens and browns, creating depth and framing the central group.
Subtleties within the scene suggest layers of meaning beyond a simple depiction of motherhood and childhood play. The classical drapery on the woman evokes associations with mythological figures, potentially alluding to themes of nurture, fertility, or divine grace. The bubbles themselves can be interpreted as symbols of transience, pleasure, or even fleeting beauty – motifs common in 17th-century Dutch art. The contrast between the woman’s grounded presence and the childs airy play might represent a tension between responsibility and freedom, permanence and impermanence. Ultimately, the painting invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of human relationships within a carefully constructed visual world.