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Detail from Vermeer's Music Lesson
This exhibition is in the past. View our current exhibitions.
JAN STEEN (LEIDEN 1626-LEIDEN 1679)

A Twelfth Night Feast: 'The King drinks'

RCIN 407489

The highlight of a Dutch Christmas was the feast celebrating the arrival of the Magi on 6 January, the ‘twelfth night’. Families drew lots to choose their ‘Lord of Misrule’, whose every sip was accompanied by shouts of ‘the King drinks’. Steen himself is depicted at the back of the group, triumphantly brandishing fresh pipes. On this occasion folly is not vice but duty. Acquired by George IV in 1814 Cat. 21

    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.