Amsterdam57 The Merry Drinker Frans Hals oil on canvas, 1628-30 This merry gentleman holds up his right hand and his mouth is open, as if he is about to say something. He raises his glass to the viewer. His large hat is elegantly tilted and contrasts sharply with the light background. In line with the latest fashion, he is wearing a medallion and a loose pleated ruff. These lace collars were extremely delicate. Frans Hals painted the Merry Drinker in around 1628-1630 in the loose style for which he became famous.