Prosperous Calvinist Family, anonymous, 1627
oil on panel, h 122cm × w 191cm More details
Praying together and thanking God for our daily bread: just as it should be. This family’s faith is as resolute as the immaculately starched folds in the tablecloth. And it is prosperous, as indicated by the little Chinese dish with strawberries and the full saltcellar on the table (salt was expensive). The Word of God is paramount, as for all Protestants. The vine along the wall refers to Psalm 128: ‘Blessed are all who walk in obedience to the Lord; you will eat the fruit of your labour; blessings and prosperity will be yours.’
