Who painted Steinbruch im Walde?

Steinbruch im Walde was painted by Jacob van Ruisdael in 1657.

Where can I see Steinbruch im Walde?

Steinbruch im Walde is held by Kunsthaus Zürich.

What movement is Steinbruch im Walde?

Steinbruch im Walde is associated with Dutch Golden Age.

Artwork

Steinbruch im Walde

Jacob van Ruisdael , 1657

Steinbruch im Walde is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Jacob van Ruisdael. It dates from 1657 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1657, this oil on canvas by Dutch landscape painter Jacob van Ruisdael is part of the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich. The work presents a tranquil natural scene, centered on a solitary tree whose sturdy trunk and spreading branches dominate the foreground, while a calm body of water extends toward a softly curving horizon.

Subject & Meaning

The composition juxtaposes the rooted solidity of the foreground tree with the expansive, reflective water beyond, suggesting a dialogue between earth and sky. The tree’s deep roots and upward-reaching limbs convey a sense of stability and growth, while the distant water horizon invites contemplation of distance and the passage of time.

Technique & Style

Ruisdael employs a palette of deep greens for foliage and muted blues for the sky and water, rendered with confident, expressive brushwork. The handling of light creates subtle contrasts between illuminated leaves and shadowed bark, while the fluid strokes in the water surface convey a gentle movement that balances the stillness of the tree.

History & Provenance

Since its execution in the mid‑17th century, the painting has remained in private and institutional hands before entering the Kunsthaus Zürich’s holdings. Its presence in a major Swiss museum reflects the enduring interest in Ruisdael’s contributions to the Dutch Golden Age landscape tradition.

Artist & collection

Artist

Jacob van Ruisdael

Jacob Isaackszoon van Ruisdael was a Dutch painter, draughtsman, and etcher. He is generally considered the pre-eminent landscape painter of the Dutch Golden Age, a period of great wealth and cultural achievement when…