Smith, John: A catalogue raisonné of the works of the most eminent Dutch, Flemish, and French painters: in which is included a short biographical notice of the artists, with a copious description of their principal pictures : a statement of the prices at which such pictures have been sold at public sales on the continent and in England; a reference the the galleries and private collections in which a large portion are at present; and the names of the artists by whom they have been engraved; to which is added, a brief notice of the scholars & imitators of the great masters of the above schools (Part 4) (London: Smith and Son, 1833)

GABRIEL METSU.

JL HE admiration which the works of this elegant
painter has at all times excited, and the high estimation
in which they have ever been held, are indubitable
proofs of their intrinsic merit and excellence. There
are but few painters whose works have wholly escaped
the vacillating opinions of fashion, under whose inssuence
some have, for a time, most undeservedly enjoyed the
praises and encouragement of a deluded and vitiated
public, while often real merit has been overlooked, or
neglected. Happily the adage, that “ Time brings
truth to light,” still holds good, and works of real
genius will sooner or later be sought for, and rightly
appreciated.
In reference to the works of Metsu, it may be said,
truly, that the subjects they represent are so familiar
and agreeable, and treated with so much genius and
taste, that they cannot fail to give general pleasure and
satisfaction. The sight of a select party of ladies and
gentlemen enjoying the enlivening recreation of vocal
and instrumental music, excites a corresponding emotion
in every lover of the science. Few are indifferent to
the charms of social conversation, the pastime of cards,
or the participation of an agreeable refection : some