This era marked Dutch independence from Spanish dominance, a time in which science, art, literature and music flourished. It was characterized by discoveries, international trade, industry and engineering, with many paintings depicting the affluent merchant class. The exhibition includes some examples of the dominant themes of this period: landscapes, architecture, portraits, and still-lifes involving minute details of flowers and fruit.
The paintings are divided into four sections: 'Variety and Specialisation' showcases the diverse genres of Dutch art; 'Everyday Reality' features detailed depictions of Dutch cities and landscapes; 'Rembrandt and his Contemporaries' includes three paintings by the great master and others by contemporary artists, many of whom were influenced by him; and 'Refinement and Elegance' highlights the sophistication and wealth of the period.
There is also a continuously running film linking Dutch 17th-century art to the buildings and landscapes of the Netherlands in the 21st century.