Jacob Jordaens (1593-1678) – Like to Like Kobenhavn (SMK) National Gallery of Denmark

The composition presents a gathering of figures around a table, rendered in a loose, expressive style characteristic of preparatory sketches or studies. The scene is populated by individuals of varying ages and social standing, suggesting a convivial, perhaps even boisterous, occasion.
Here we see a group seated at an elaborately draped table, the central focus being their interaction with one another and a small cluster of puppies playfully positioned in the foreground. A stout man, dressed in dark robes, occupies a prominent position on the left, his gaze directed towards the center of the gathering. Adjacent to him sits a woman in a white garment, likely indicative of religious affiliation or social status, holding what appears to be a vessel.
Further along the table, an elderly couple is depicted; the man with a long beard and wearing dark attire, while the woman displays a weathered face framed by a white head covering. A younger woman, draped in yellow fabric, sits next to them, her expression seemingly absorbed in the scene unfolding before her. A young boy, positioned near her, appears to be part of the groups dynamic.
The artist’s use of light and shadow is employed to highlight certain figures and create a sense of depth within the composition. The loose brushwork contributes to an overall feeling of spontaneity and immediacy.
Subtleties in the depiction suggest potential layers of meaning beyond a simple portrayal of social interaction. The presence of the puppies, for instance, could symbolize loyalty, abundance, or even familial bonds. The varied expressions on the faces of the individuals hint at a complex interplay of emotions – amusement, contemplation, and perhaps even underlying tensions. The arrangement of figures around the table might allude to themes of community, hospitality, or shared experiences within a specific social context. The overall impression is one of a moment captured in time, imbued with both warmth and a degree of ambiguity that invites further interpretation.