Drinking man

Arnold Houbraken wrote in his biography that he knew Diepraam personally. He describes the Rotterdam painter as a drunkard and barfly and claims that Diepraam sold his works himself in taverns, only to immediately squander the money on drink.
We do not know whether Houbraken was exaggerating or not, but he was certainly no fan of Diepraam's painting and drawing style, which he considered “too loose”. What we do know is that Diepraam was apprenticed to Hendrick Maertensz. Sorgh, also a Rotterdam native who became also famous for his tavern and kitchen scenes.  It is believed that Diepraam had contact (or was even a pubil) with Adriaen Brouwer in Antwerp around1638.
Our drawing is one of Diepraam's most important works, not only because of its large size but also because of its high quality (and good condition). The subject and composition are very “Brouwerian”; this drunkard is depicted with great power and lively expression.

Black cray and white heigtenings, 28.3 x 21 cm (11 ¹/₈ x 8 ¹/₄ inches)