The Dutch Golden Age

In the 17th century, the Dutch republic became an economic and military superpower. It was also an era in which Dutch science and arts blossomed. This era is usually referred to as the Dutch Golden Age.

All art forms flourished in this era, but the Golden Age is especially remembered for its painters. Artists like Rembrandt, Johannes (or Jan) Vermeer, Jan Steen, Paulus Potter and Frans Hals painted their masterpieces in Holland in the 17th century.

Masterpieces of the Golden Age