Drunken Peasant at an Inn

Art Historical Context

In the lively tradition of 17th-century Flemish genre painting *Drunken Peasant at Inn* captures the earthy humor and realism of Adriaen Brouwer, a master of tavern scenes depicting the boisterous lives of peasants. Brouwer (1605/06–1638), renowned for his unflinching portrayals of-life revelry—often laced with moral undertones the original artist whose work inspired this 1775 print. Edited by Cornelis Ploos Amstel, a Dutchnoisseur dedicated to preserving Old Master drawings through innovative reproductions, and masterfully printed by Bernhard Schreuder, this piece reflects the Enlightenment-era fascination with translating paintings into accessible prints for collectors. The medium—etching combined with mezzotint, roulette, and burnishing in rich brown ink on laid paper—demonstrates 18th-century printmaking virtuosity. Mezzotint's velvety tones and roulette's textured effects mimic Brouwer's dramatic chiaroscuro and rough brushwork, while burnishing adds luminous highlights, bridging painting and print. At just 19.4 × 15.6 cm, its intimate scale invites close viewing, evoking the smoky intimacy of an inn. Housed in the National Gallery of Art's collection (gift of Sherwood B. Smith, Jr.), this print underscores prints' role in democratizing art, allowing Brouwer's vivid social commentary to endure beyond his lifetime. Visitors will delight in its candid glimpse into everyday excess, a timeless nod to human folly.