Who painted The Bridge over the Waterfall?

The Bridge over the Waterfall was painted by Wenceslaus Hollar in 1648.

Where can I see The Bridge over the Waterfall?

The Bridge over the Waterfall is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Bridge over the Waterfall?

The Bridge over the Waterfall is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of The Bridge over the Waterfall?

Museum-quality prints of The Bridge over the Waterfall are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The Bridge over the Waterfall

Wenceslaus Hollar , 1648

The Bridge over the Waterfall is an ink print by the Baroque artist Wenceslaus Hollar. It dates from 1648 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:along lower edge of plate: Jacques van Artois pinxit; W. Hollar fecit 1648 Antwerpus Petrus van Avont excudit; by later hand, lower left in graphite: Another imp at P. Prouté / 1982 u-; by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: La Passarelle sur la cascade (Der Steg über dem Wasserfall / P. 1208 1/2 / Andresen p. 685 # 22 / Vertue p. 49 / Fagan No. 436 / Col R. Dumesnil Lugt 2200 / Weyer Ax

About this work

Overview

Created in 1648 by Wenceslaus Hollar, a Czech-born artist active primarily in England, The Bridge over the Waterfall is an etching on laid paper that showcases the artist's skill in capturing serene landscapes.

Subject & Meaning

The etching portrays a tranquil natural scene: a waterfall cascading into a pool, surrounded by lush foliage, with a bridge in the background, evoking a sense of depth and serenity.

Technique & Style

Hollar's meticulous etching technique is evident in the delicate lines and shading, which, combined with the strategic use of light and shadow, create a vivid atmospheric effect, aligning with Baroque stylistic elements.

History & Provenance

Wenceslaus Hollar (1607-1677) produced this work during his time in England, where he was known for detailed landscapes and cityscapes, contrasting with his birthplace of Prague.

Context

The Bridge over the Waterfall reflects the Baroque movement's emphasis on dramatic lighting, though here applied to a peaceful, natural subject, diverging from the movement's typical dramatic themes.

Legacy

This etching exemplifies Hollar's contribution to the Baroque landscape tradition in 17th-century England, appreciated for its technical precision and serene beauty.

Six views in the Wood of the Hague: Plate 6, Two Deer, Roelant Roghman

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Artist & collection

Artist

Wenceslaus Hollar

Wenceslaus Hollar (Czech: Václav Hollar (Czech pronunciation: ), German: Wenzel Hollar; 23 July 1607 – 25 March 1677) was a Czech engraver, etcher and painter.