Peasant Kermis

1665

The peasants in Teniers’ kermis (country festival) scenes usually behave impeccably. They eat and drink, dance to bagpipe music, or just stand around chatting. The only false note in this merry scene is caused by drink; the man in the left foreground can no longer stand on his legs. The colours are bright and cheerful, with many white accents provided by the freshly laundered shirts and aprons.