The Toper

This 1651 Toper at the Wallace Collection depicts a figure of convivial excess — a popular subject in Dutch genre painting that combined entertainment with moral warning about the dangers of intemperate drinking. Bol brings his Rembrandtesque warmth to this characterful genre study. Ferdinand Bol was one of Rembrandt's most talented pupils, and his portraits and history paintings from his years in the master's studio are sometimes difficult to distinguish from Rembrandt's own work—a testament to his exceptional skill in absorbing the master's technique.

The drinker is rendered with lively characterization and warm lighting, Bol's expressive handling of the flushed face and animated posture creating a vivid image of tipsy conviviality.