Six Regents of the Nieuw Zijds Institute - Ferdinand Bol (Dutch, 1616-1680)

Six Regents and the Beadle of the Nieuw Zijds Institute for the Outdoor Relief of the Poor, Amsterdam, 1657 by Ferdinand Bol is a captivating group portrait that showcases the dignified figures of the regents alongside the beadle, tasked with overseeing the welfare of the poor. Bol’s detailed rendering of their attire and solemn expressions captures both the formality of the period and the social responsibility of the subjects. The artist’s mastery of light and composition enhances the gravitas of the scene, making it a significant example of Dutch Golden Age portraiture. A must-have for collectors who appreciate historical narratives and the rich tradition of 17th-century Dutch art.