Who painted Landscape and Bridge with Three Figures?

Landscape and Bridge with Three Figures was painted by Carl Wilhelm I Kolbe in 1807.

Where can I see Landscape and Bridge with Three Figures?

Landscape and Bridge with Three Figures is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artwork

Landscape and Bridge with Three Figures

Landscape and Bridge with Three Figures is a print by Carl Wilhelm I Kolbe. It dates from 1807 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

This painting shows a landscape with a bridge and three figures.
The scene is peaceful, with the bridge curving gently over the water. It's interesting that the artist included everyday people in the scene, which was a common practice during this time period.
You can learn more about this style by looking into the work of artist Carl Wilhelm I Kolbe (German, 1757–1835).

Overview

Created circa 1807 by German etcher Carl Wilhelm I Kolbe, this print presents a tranquil river landscape crossed by a gently arcing bridge. Three modest figures populate the foreground, adding a narrative element to the otherwise serene scenery. The work belongs to the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection.

Subject & Meaning

The composition combines a natural setting with a simple architectural feature, emphasizing the harmony between humanity and environment. The inclusion of everyday individuals reflects an 18th‑century genre tradition that foregrounds ordinary life within picturesque landscapes.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, the image relies on fine line work and tonal variation to render water, foliage, and architectural detail. Kolbe’s handling of light and shadow creates depth, while the delicate hatching conveys texture in both the bridge’s stonework and the surrounding terrain.

History & Provenance

Carl Wilhelm I Kolbe, known as “the Elder” to differentiate him from his painter nephew, was active as a printmaker and writer during the late 1700s and early 1800s. The print entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s holdings through acquisition, though the precise chain of ownership prior to the museum is not documented in the available records.