
Paulus Moreelse (Utrecht 1571-Utrecht 1638)
Portrait of a Young Boy Signed and dated 1634
RCIN 404734
This young sitter appears to have recently made the transition from wrappings of fabric into ankle-length garments, which usually happened before the age of one. The white linen apron and bib have been pressed tightly for storage – the pattern of creases was both decorative and a clear indication of high standards of housekeeping. The boy holds a rock-crystal rattle, secured with a ribbon at his shoulder. Rattles provided amusement and aided the teething process.