Gallant Conversation, Known as ‘The Paternal Admonition’

1654

With psychological sensitivity, Ter Borch here depicted three figures in a bedchamber. The young man, his sword still hanging from his belt and his hat resting in his lap, calls on the young woman. He makes a speaking gesture with his raised hand, while gazing intently at the girl in a magnificent satin gown. Is he making an indecent proposal? With her back turned, her reaction remains hidden from us.