Nicolaus Knüpfer: Brothel scene (1650); Rijksmuseum Amsterdam

This playful painting by Nicolaus Knüpfer (c. 1603-1655) depicts a brothel, but from the historic costumes and emphatic gestures we can assume that it was based on a play, probably a comedy.
The man and two women on the bed are enjoying themselves with their love game, while two other figures have climbed upon the table to look out of the window. Something or someone seems to be approaching.
The man and woman in the front display attributes suitable to the scene. While the woman plays the lute, a well known sexual symbol in art, the man pulls his sword out of the sheath in a way that evokes erotic thoughts.
Nicolaus Knüpfer was born in Leipzig, but moved to Utrecht in 1630. His most famous pupils were Gabriël Metsu and Jan Steen, the last being clearly influenced by Knüpfers lively style.