Pieter de Hooch

Man reading a letter to a woman

Canvas, 77 x 69.9 cm

Signed on the foot-warmer: P.d.Hoo...

The meticulous execution and excellent condition make this one of the most attractive paintings in De Hooch's late, Amsterdam oeuvre. Man reading a letter to a woman was painted in the years 1670-74. De Hooch has here harmoniously combined a balanced composition with subtle effects of light. The interaction between the man reading the letter at the left and the central figure of the woman with a dreamy look on her face, makes this picture extraordinarily touching.