Kate, H.F.C. ten | In the tavern

Herman ten Kate specialised in historical genre scenes. His paintings, which were generally situated in a pub or inn, frequently depicted figures in historical dress. They often included soldiers drinking and playing cards in the pub. Ten Kate’s work was greatly appreciated in his day for its realistic portrayal and the liveliness of his scenes. In 1856 he was decorated as a “member of merit” by the Academy of Rotterdam. He also was president of the Amsterdam artists’ society Arti et Amicitiae for some years.

Ten Kate found a lot of inspiration in the works by Jean-Louis-Ernest Meissonier (1815-1891) and David Teniers the Younger (1610-1690). His great interest in the history of the Netherlands is apparent from the series of scenes he made of the Eighty Years’ War. Private clients also liked to see 17th century historical costumes in their paintings. As such, there are also church scenes by Johannes Bosboom with 17th century figures and Cornelis Springer often received direct commissions to paint town views with historical figures.