A Merry Party, by Jan Steen
1600-1700
The 17th century is the Golden Age of the Dutch Republic. The North Sea mini-state enjoys a period of unprecedented economic and cultural growth. Shipping (VOC, WIC and whaling), trade, science, architecture, literature and the visual arts all flourish as never before. The influence of Dutch artists and architects extends far beyond the national borders, as witness the presence today of paintings by artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, Frans Hals and Jan Steen in museums around the world. Amsterdam becomes one of the foremost commercial and financial centres in Western Europe. The religious freedom of the Republic attracts refugees from all over Europe. Amsterdam becomes a magnet for writers and scholars, such as Spinoza, who are unable to publish in their own countries.