For the first time, a comprehensive solo exhibition has been dedicated to the work of Cornelis Bega (1631/32-1664). Bega, a distinguished Haarlem painter, mostly depicted rural genre scenes; he was highly praised as "one of the best of his time". On display are a representative selection of around 40 paintings, 20 drawings and several etchings, especially from the artists' final years, during which he attained an inspired painterly elegance and a strong sophistication in colour.

All the subjects of this most versatile and virtuosic of painters are represented: peasants in disreputable drinking dens or sensual couples playing music, as well as scenes of modest family life or obscure scientists at work in their laboratories. Various themes and motifs in the paintings are complemented by Bega's masterful drawings.

An exhibition from the Gemäldegalerie in cooperation with the Suermondt Ludwig Museum in Aachen.