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Downstairs XII


A Peculiar House

Recently I've been visiting Poptaslot, a house and an estate from the 1630s with a fascinating story. This is probably the best-preserved house in Friesland with all the interiors and furniture still intact as they were in 1712 when the last owner died. In his will, he declared that his house should never be lived in again and should be preserved for future generations. Four appointed guardians still ensure the house and estate are maintained in perfect condition. 

I had the pleasure of being guided through this marvellous house (while Paul and Chester enjoyed the beautiful gardens). I learned about the history of this unique place and took lots of pictures, hoping to paint some of those historic interiors later. Of course, I was particularly interested in the downstairs quarters. The original water pump with a stone sink in the basement has a lovely light-shadow effect on it. The contra-light through a small window in the kitchen door made the contract even more dramatic.  

That's what I wanted to capture in this painting, adding to my Downstairs series.  

Oil on cardboard 22 x 28 cm, alla prima, limited palette.

View the finished painting in my gallery.



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