introduction isaac elias, also known as isack elyas, was a dutch golden age painter who was active around 1629, likely in haarlem. he is known for his single signed work, merry company, held at the rijksmuseum. the painting is believed to represent the five senses, with the woman with the lapdog symbolizing smell, and the man with the piece of paper symbolizing hearing. life and career isaac elias was born in 1590 in the netherlands and died in 1630. little is known about his life and training, but it is believed that he was active in haarlem, a city known for its vibrant artistic community.…