Artwork

View of the River Rhine

View of the River Rhine, by Jan van Aken, ink, 1638
View of the River Rhine, by Jan van Aken, ink, 1638

View of the River Rhine is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jan van Aken. It dates from 1638 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

View of the River Rhine is an etching on laid paper created by Jan van Aken in 1638.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a serene landscape with a winding river, rocky hills, and sparse buildings. Figures and animals are shown moving along a path, while a solitary figure gazes out from a cliff edge, suggesting a contemplative atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Van Aken employed fine lines to capture the interplay of light and shadow, conveying the texture of the hills and the softness of the sky. This approach was characteristic of etching techniques prevalent during the 17th century.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jan van Aken

Artist

Jan van Aken

Jan van Aken (1614–1661) was a Dutch artist, born in Kampen.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.