Militia Company of District XI under the Command of Captain Reynier Reael, Known as ‘The Meagre Company’
A hand-painted replica of Frans Hals’s masterpiece Militia Company of District XI under the Command of Captain Reynier Reael, Known as ‘The Meagre Company’, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
"Militia Company of District XI under the Command of Captain Reynier Reael, Known as ‘The Meagre Company’" is a notable painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Frans Hals, completed in collaboration with Pieter Codde. This work is an example of a schutterstuk, or a group portrait of a civic guard company, a popular genre in the Netherlands during the 17th century.
The painting was commissioned by the Amsterdam civic guard, specifically the company of Captain Reynier Reael and Lieutenant Cornelis Michielsz Blaeuw. The work was intended to capture the likenesses of the officers and members of the militia company, serving both as a record of their service and as a display of civic pride. The painting is known as "The Meagre Company" due to the relatively thin and lanky appearance of the figures depicted, a characteristic that distinguishes it from other more robust portrayals of militia groups.
Frans Hals, renowned for his lively brushwork and ability to capture the individuality and vitality of his subjects, began the painting around 1633. However, due to unspecified reasons, Hals did not complete the work. The task of finishing the painting was handed over to Pieter Codde, another accomplished artist of the time, who completed it in 1637. Codde's contribution is believed to include the refinement of certain figures and the addition of details, ensuring the painting's completion and coherence.
The painting measures approximately 209 cm by 429 cm and is characterized by its dynamic composition and the naturalistic portrayal of its subjects. The figures are arranged in a semi-circular formation, with Captain Reynier Reael and Lieutenant Cornelis Michielsz Blaeuw prominently positioned in the foreground. The members of the militia are depicted in various poses, some standing, others seated, each with distinct expressions and gestures that convey a sense of individuality and camaraderie.
"The Meagre Company" is housed in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, where it is part of the museum's extensive collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings. The work is considered an important example of Hals's portraiture, showcasing his skill in capturing the essence of his subjects with a sense of immediacy and vitality. Despite the challenges in its creation, the painting remains a testament to the collaborative efforts of Hals and Codde and a valuable historical record of Amsterdam's civic guard during the 17th century.
The painting's significance lies not only in its artistic merit but also in its reflection of the social and cultural dynamics of the time. Militia companies played a crucial role in the defense and governance of Dutch cities, and their portraits served as symbols of civic duty and pride. "The Meagre Company" thus offers insight into the values and identities of the individuals who served in these important civic roles.
