Frans Hals

About the Artist

Frans Hals was born in Mechelen, in the Netherlands, in 1582 and died in Haarlem in 1666, a leading painter of the Dutch Golden Age. He painted mainly portraits and genre scenes, working in Haarlem for much of his career. Hals is considered a founder of Dutch portraiture, showing unrivaled skill especially in group portraits. His work captures his sitters' character with precision, drawing viewers in with its vitality. His later work in particular is marked by austere expression and depth of touch, with 'The Regents of the Old Men's Almshouse' regarded as his masterpiece.