Who painted The Start?

The Start was painted by Abraham van Calraet in 1701.

Where can I see The Start?

The Start is held by National Galleries Scotland.

What movement is The Start?

The Start is associated with Dutch Golden Age.

Artwork

The Start

Abraham van Calraet , 1701

The Start is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Abraham van Calraet. It dates from 1701 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1701, *The Start* is an oil painting by Dutch artist Abraham van Calraet, whose career spanned still lifes, portraits and landscapes. The work exemplifies the Dutch Golden Age’s attention to naturalistic detail and is currently part of the collection of the Scottish National Gallery.

Subject & Meaning

The canvas presents an animated countryside scene populated by several horses and their riders. A prominently positioned rider, distinguished by a hat, coat and a whip in hand, commands the viewer’s eye. The varied stances of the animals—some stationary, others in motion—convey a fleeting moment of activity within a pastoral setting.

Technique & Style

Van Calraet employs a restrained palette, allowing the figures to emerge from a softer, atmospheric background of trees and cloud‑filled sky. Careful modulation of light and shadow gives the horses a three‑dimensional presence, while the contrast between illuminated forms and muted surroundings creates a sense of depth and kinetic energy.

History & Provenance

Painted toward the end of van Calraet’s career, *The Start* reflects the artist’s mature handling of landscape and animal subjects. After remaining in private hands for centuries, the painting entered the Scottish National Gallery’s holdings, where it is displayed as part of the museum’s representation of Dutch Golden Age art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Abraham van Calraet

Abraham van Calraet, or Kalraat (7–12 October 1642, Dordrecht – 11 June 1722, Dordrecht) was a Dutch Golden Age still-life, portrait- and landscape painter.