This composition - the posture of the main figure, the column and drape, the figures in an arbor behind – closely follows that of Frans Hals’s 1625 portrait of Willem van Heythuysen (Munich, Alte Pinakothek). This is not, however, as was once believed, a sketch for that portrait or even a work by Frans Hals. It is probably a character study depicting a favorite object of ridicule in genre paintings of this date – the fop or dandy (in Dutch Jonkertjes or ‘little Lords’). The setting suggests that such a youth is good only for idleness, dalliance and vanity. This image is created out of undisguised brushstrokes, applied with great brilliance and as if in great haste. The effect conveys the animation and flamboyance of the character, without particular concern for structure. This ‘carefree’ technique (and subject) is reminiscent of Judith Leyster’s works from around 1630.