What is fijnschilderen?

Fijnschilderen, also known as "fine painting," is a traditional Dutch painting technique that emerged during the 17th century, the Golden Age of Dutch painting. It involves painting on a prepared surface using small and detailed brushstrokes in order to create highly realistic and intricate details.

Fijnschilderen is often associated with the genre of still life paintings, as it allows the artist to capture the textures and nuances of objects with great precision and illusion of depth. Some of the most famous fijnschilders in Dutch art history include Willem Claeszoon Heda, Willem Kalf, and Jan van Huysum.

In contemporary times, fijnschilderen has become less common as artists have moved towards more abstract and expressive styles. However, the technique remains highly regarded as a masterful and highly skilled form of painting.