Description
Dutch artist Jacob Isaackszon Van Ruisdael's Landscape with Waterfall is one of the most iconic works of the 17th century. This 101 x 142 cm oil painting is a masterpiece of Dutch Baroque landscape painting.
The composition of the work is impressive. The viewer's view is drawn from the lower left of the painting, where a small stream meanders through the vegetation, to the center of the image, where a large cascade of water falls into a pool surrounded by rocks and trees. The view then extends to the right where hills and trees can be seen in the distance.
The use of color in the work is impressive. The green and brown tones of the vegetation combine with the blue of the sky and the white of the water foam to create a feeling of peace and tranquility. The details of the painting are exceptional, from the leaves on the trees to the rocks in the background.
The history of the painting is interesting as it is believed to have been painted around 1660. Van Ruisdael is known to have traveled throughout Holland and Germany in search of inspiration for his landscape paintings. This particular work is believed to have been influenced by the Schaffhausen Falls in Switzerland.
A little-known aspect of the painting is that Van Ruisdael is believed to have painted the work in collaboration with his nephew, Salomon Van Ruysdael. Salomon was a landscape painter in his own right and is believed to have contributed to the creation of this masterpiece.
In short, the Landscape with Waterfall painting is a masterpiece of Dutch Baroque landscape painting. Its composition, use of color, and exceptional detail make it one of the most impressive works of its time. The history of the painting and his collaboration with his nephew also add an additional layer of interest to this masterpiece.