Artwork

Two Men Seated at the Foot of a High Rock

Two Men Seated at the Foot of a High Rock, by Allart van Everdingen, ink, 1650
Two Men Seated at the Foot of a High Rock, by Allart van Everdingen, ink, 1650

Two Men Seated at the Foot of a High Rock is an ink print by the Baroque artist Allart van Everdingen. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Two Men Seated at the Foot of a High Rock is an etching created by Allaert van Everdingen around 1650. It is a print that showcases the artist's skill in capturing landscape and natural scenery.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts two men sitting at the base of a tall, jagged rock, lost in thought. The rock dominates the scene, with the men's figures rendered small in comparison. A bare tree and rolling hills are visible in the background, adding to the serene atmosphere.

Technique & Style

The artist used fine lines to convey texture, creating a three-dimensional effect on the rock's surface. This attention to detail was characteristic of etchings from the period, and demonstrates Everdingen's technical skill.

Context

The work reflects the Dutch Golden Age's interest in landscape and natural scenery, a theme that was popular among artists of the time.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Allart van Everdingen

Artist

Allart van Everdingen

Allaert van Everdingen (Dutch pronunciation: ; bapt. 18 June 1621 – 8 November 1675 (buried)), was a Dutch Golden Age painter and printmaker in etching and mezzotint.

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