The Dutch and Flemish works of art in the UMFA's collection span a period of several hundred years, from the late fifteenth century to the present. A similar breadth is reflected in the themes of the works of art, with examples from all subject categories, i.e., history painting, portraits, still lifes, landscapes, and genre scenes.44 This thematic diversity reflects cultural circumstances and artistic specialization. After a brief historical overview and short discussion of the formulation of the Netherlandish canon, the following essay focuses on the themes represented in the UMFA's collection and utilizes some of these works as examples. Also considered are foreign influences on northern artists during their travels abroad, as well as the role of prints. Information specific to each work of art in the UMFA's collection is provided in the individual essays of the catalogue.