![Jan Verkolje - The Messenger (Times Change) [1674]](http://c1.staticflickr.com/1/372/19300856790_c2b65d9741_o.jpg)
An officer and a young lady are sitting at a table playing backgammon. Just as she is about to throw the dice, a messenger appears holding a letter. Is he bringing good news or bad? The concerned look on the officer’s face suggests the worst. Verkolje was a master at depicting gleaming satin. The back of this beautiful dress, full of pleats, seams and creases, is a good example of his skill.
[Mauritshuis, The Hague - Oil on canvas, 59 x 53.5 cm]
