The painter Hessel de Boer studied at the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague. In addition to portraits, still lifes and interiors, Hessel de Boer is known for his cityscapes. The Hague is a favorite theme for him.

Many artists and friends posed for his psychologically empathetic portrait paintings.

Hessel de Boer firmly believed in figurative art, at a time when this genre was clearly less sought after. He was a member of the Haagsche Kunstkring and Pulchri Studio.