Who painted Cottages by a River?

Cottages by a River was painted by Jan van Goyen in 1628.

Where can I see Cottages by a River?

Cottages by a River is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Cottages by a River?

Cottages by a River is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Cottages by a River

Jan van Goyen , 1628

Cottages by a River is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Jan van Goyen. It dates from 1628 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:all inscriptions in graphite by later hands on backing: upper right: [b?] [P?] / 7810/G; lower right: 39 Res R / H287

About this work

Overview

Cottages by a River is a drawing created by Jan van Goyen around 1628. It is executed in black chalk with touches of graphite on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a riverside scene with a cluster of bare trees and bushes, a small building, and a river with boats in the background. The sketchy, unfinished quality suggests a focus on capturing the scene's essence rather than precise details.

Technique & Style

The loose, expressive lines and the use of black chalk with graphite touches contribute to the drawing's dynamic feel. The artist's emphasis on suggestion rather than precise rendering creates a sense of movement and energy.

History & Provenance

Jan van Goyen was a prolific Dutch landscape painter who produced over 1,000 drawings and around 1,200 paintings during his career. Cottages by a River is one of many river scenes he depicted, showcasing his interest in varied landscape subjects.