Artwork

Mountainous landscape with river valley and castles

Mountainous landscape with river valley and castles, by Jan Meerhout, oil, 1661
Mountainous landscape with river valley and castles, by Jan Meerhout, oil, 1661

Mountainous landscape with river valley and castles is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Jan Meerhout. It dates from 1661 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Mountainous landscape with river valley and castles is an oil painting created by Jan Meerhout in 1661, currently held at the Rijksmuseum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene countryside scene featuring a winding river, rolling hills, and two stone castles. Three horsemen ride towards a large house on a shaded path, set against a soft, cloudy sky and landscape rendered in earthy tones.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of light and shadow creates a three-dimensional effect, with deep shadows and bright highlights, particularly on the horses and the house's roof. This technique, characteristic of chiaroscuro, adds depth to the scene.

Artist & collection

Artist

Jan Meerhout

Jan Meerhout (1630–1677) was an artist, born in Gorinchem.

Rijksmuseum

Museum

Rijksmuseum

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