Winter landscape, Van der Neer 17th Century

Our painting is part of the tradition of Dutch winter scenes during the Golden Age. This composition shows the influence of Hendrick Avercamp’s winter scenes, creating a particular affection in Aernout van der Neer for winter landscapes, which he enjoyed painting in the 1650s and 1660s. It is also known for its nocturnal landscapes; the finesse and talent of van der Neer explain the presence of his works in the largest museums in the world (Rijksmuseum, Wallace Collection, National Gallery of Art,...)

By illustrating a snowy winter landscape, animated by many characters around a frozen river that winds the landscape, the painter injects dynamism into the composition. Far from being frozen, the landscape reflects a quiet winter atmosphere where everyone is busy with their daily activities. Although the painting has not been cleaned, it is possible to capture van der Neer’s work on the atmospheric perspective, in which traditional villages and mills blend into the distance. Also, his mastery of the play of light, marked by an astonishing subtlety, influenced centuries later other painters such as Corot, a great admirer of his work.

Artwork signed in bottom left.
Modern frame in ronce.

Dimension with frame: 57 cm width x 39 cm height
Dimension without frame: 44 cm width x 26 cm height