Peinture et comédie : les scènes de théâtre de Cornelis Troost (1696-1750)
This master’s thesis focuses on one of the most famous Dutch painters of his time, Cornelis Troost (1696-1750). Troost’s success derives from the originality of his subjects in the theatrical scenes he depicts five of which are discussed here. Troost himself was a professional actor before devoting himself to the art of painting. Dutch art of the eighteenth century is a topic rarely discussed in art history. Several elements of Netherlandish history, including political changes, are essential in order to acquire a better understanding of Troost's theatrical work. Troost embraces the theatrical source. His works of art bear the same title as the plays from which they are drawn. Troost puts the emphasis on his characters, and this feature helps to put the focus on the emotions of the characters and the action. A parallel is made with Jan Steen and Gerard De Lairesse, other Dutch artists who were inspired by the theatrical world. The narrative aspect in the works of Troost is also an important aspect which needs to be approached in order to understand his theater scenes.
Cornelis Troost theater theater scenes Netherlands dutch art of the eighteenth century