Artwork
De hengelaars
De hengelaars is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Nikolaas Verkolje. It dates from 1738 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Nikolaas Verkolje’s 1738 oil painting titled De hengelaars depicts a tranquil river scene populated by everyday figures. The work is part of the Rijksmuseum’s collection and exemplifies the Dutch genre tradition of portraying ordinary life with careful observation.
Subject & Meaning
The surrounding village, modest houses, and soft, overcast sky reinforce the painting’s focus on routine, communal activity.
The composition centers on a modest boat drifting on a calm waterway, carrying two women in light blue dresses and wide-brimmed hats, alongside two men in simple work attire. A solitary figure stands on a nearby bridge, holding a basket that suggests the transport of fish or market goods. The surrounding village, modest houses, and soft, overcast sky reinforce the painting’s focus on routine, communal activity.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil on canvas, Verkolje employs a restrained palette and subtle modeling of light to convey the gentle atmosphere. The reflections on the water and the delicate handling of atmospheric conditions demonstrate a nuanced use of chiaroscuro, balancing illumination and shadow without dramatic contrast.
History & Provenance
Created in 1738, De hengelaars has remained in the public domain as part of the Rijksmuseum’s holdings. The painting’s provenance traces back to the Dutch art market of the 18th century, where genre scenes of this type were popular among collectors interested in depictions of quotidian life.
Artist & collection
Artist
Nicolaas Verkolje or Vercolje (11 April 1673 – 21 January 1746) was a Dutch painter and mezzotinter. He specialized in history pieces and portraits in a classicistic style.
The Rape of Europa
Faun and Nymph
Apotheosis of the Dutch East India Company (Allegory of the Amsterdam Chamber of Commerce of the VOC)
Portrait of David van Mollen and Son-in-Law Jacob Sydervelt with his Family
Dido and Aeneas
Denial of Saint Peter (Matthew 26:69-75; Mark 14:66-72; Luke 21:54-63; John 17:15-25).
Two Vestal Virgins
De vogelaars
The Watering Party (L'eau)
Shallow Water near a Castle
The Approach
Un paseo a la orilla del Estanque del Retiro
Mishap at the Ford
Conversation Piece (Portrait of Sir Andrew Fountaine with Other Men and Women)
The See-Saw
The Vineyard
The Swing
Misled: The Ambassador of the Rascals exposes himself from the window of 't Bokki Tavern in the Haarlemmerhout
View of a Harbor in Schiedam