Man Writing a Letter by Gabriel Metsu. A young gentleman in scholarly attire sits at a desk draped in a red Persian rug, meticulously writing a letter by a window.

Man Writing a Letter

Gabriel Metsu

1665 · Oil Paint, Panel

A quiet and refined scene from the Dutch Golden Age depicting a young man lost in thought while writing.

$243

For the selected configuration

From $129

1 frame size

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Made to order in ~2 business days · Free U.S. standard shipping (typically 5–8 business days after dispatch)

Where it works

A grounded artwork with confident presence with warm, lived-in color — holds a formal wall with confidence.

Often works in
Study · Library · Office
Placement
Strongest where a vertical wall can take more presence
Walls
Benefits from light or mid-tone surroundings
Color notes
Charcoal black, Deep burgundy, Terracotta clay

About the piece

Painted in 1665 by Gabriel Metsu, this iconic Dutch genre scene is celebrated for its masterful handling of light and texture, from the lustrous silver inkwell to the heavy, intricately woven textile of the rug. The work offers a serene glimpse into a sophisticated 17th-century European interior, making it a timeless choice for a library or formal study.