Genre Scene

Frans Francken III trained in the workshop of his father, Frans Francken the Younger, and became a master in 1639/40, aged only 32. He specialised in adding staffage figures, but since this métier was probably not particularly profitable, he supplemented his income by trading in cotton and linen.

Francken presents an illustrious company dressed in all their finery, with softly shimmering colours, delicate lace and choice jewellery. The trio on the right are playing backgammon. The table is decked with roast chicken, bread, pies and wine.

The painting in the background shows the infatuated Zeus descending upon Danae as a golden shower. This, together with the amorous foreground scene with the man and the two women, makes clear the real object of this company – an erotic gathering with select amusement.