Introduction

It's the 17th century, the golden age for the Republic of the United Netherlands.  Amsterdam has exploded to become the world leader in trade.

Smart merchants are making a lot of money trading with exotic countries.  On the markets are wonders like silks from China, ivory from India, and busts of Caesars from Rome. Some of these businessmen are so rich that they don't know what to do with their money.

Imagine that you are the foreman of a fabulously wealthy, well-established merchant. This merchant decides to have a portrait done of his family.  The painting has to be set him apart;  it has to be a grade higher than any other family in Amsterdam. As a further incentive, if you find the greatest artist, you will be in the painting as well.

The arts are flourishing in Flanders and Holland, with famous artists building their reputations, particularly in portraiture.  Flemish artists such as Anthony Van Dyke and Peter Paul Rubens, and Dutch artists like Rembrandt van Rijn and Jan Vermeer are each vying for your commission.  Your master wants only the best, but which one is he?  That is what you need to decide.

WebQuest

Introduction

Tasks

Process

Evaluation

Conclusion