Artwork
Iceskating before an Inn
Iceskating before an Inn is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Jan van Goyen. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Bode Museum.
About this work
Overview
Iceskating before an Inn is a 17th-century oil painting by Jan van Goyen, a prolific Dutch artist known for his landscapes. Created around 1650, it is one of approximately twelve hundred paintings he produced during his career.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a lively winter scene with people ice skating, playing, and socializing in front of a modest inn. A large tree with bare branches stands in front of the inn, which is situated on the left side of the composition.
Technique & Style
The work showcases van Goyen's skill in capturing the atmosphere of a winter scene, with a cloudy sky and a few birds flying in the distance. The artist's use of oil paint brings the lively and festive scene to life.
History & Provenance
Iceskating before an Inn is now held in the Gemäldegalerie Berlin, a testament to its enduring significance as a representation of Dutch Golden Age art.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jan Josephszoon van Goyen (Dutch pronunciation: ; 13 January 1596 – 27 April 1656) was a Dutch landscape painter.
