Six Wardens of the Drapers' Guild

This painting caught my attention for several reasons: first, my interest in fabric, but also because of the perspective. 

The wardens of the Drapers' Guild were responsible for inspecting and grading fabrics.  Several hold fine black fabric in their hands along with some tools of their trade.  Fine cloth exports were a very important trading commodity.

The perspective of this painting is unique. You can tell it was intended to be hung high because the perspective allows the viewer to see underneath the large brimmed hats and seemingly underneath the Turkish carpeted table.

This style is in keeping with traditional militia style paintings of the time, although not a military painting.  There is a bit more movement than what is seen typically in military works although the scale is equally grand as you can see from its scale compared to the public.

Painted by Pieter Pietersc in 1589.