MAES, Nicolaes
(b. 1634, Dordrecht, d. 1693, Amsterdam)

The Lacemaker

1656-57
Oil on canvas, 45 x 53 cm
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

The range of Mae's domestic subjects is large. They show women praying, spinning, sewing, making lace, preparing food, or teaching children - all virtuous activities related to the centrality and sanctity of the home in Dutch society.