Artwork
The Twelve Months: August
The Twelve Months: August is a print by the Baroque artist Velde, Jan van de, II. It dates from 1613 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1960.143.9
- Credit line
- Mr. and Mrs. Lewis B. Williams Collection
About this work
Overview
The Twelve Months: August is a 1613 print by Jan van de Velde II, a Dutch artist of the Golden Age, depicting a serene rural landscape with late-summer agricultural activities.
Subject & Meaning
The print illustrates a tranquil scene of rural life in August, with figures engaged in various tasks amidst a natural setting, emphasizing the cycle of seasonal labor.
Technique & Style
Executed in a detailed, realistic manner, the work utilizes chiaroscuro to create depth and atmosphere, aligning with Baroque stylistic elements that emphasize dramatic lighting.
History & Provenance
Created by Jan van de Velde II in 1613, the print is now part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, reflecting the artist's contribution to Dutch Golden Age art.
Context
As part of a series, The Twelve Months: August situates itself within the broader theme of seasonal cycles, a common motif in early 17th-century Dutch art, often exploring the relationship between human activity and nature.
Legacy
While specific impact on later artists is not well-documented, the print contributes to the enduring legacy of Dutch Golden Age art, particularly in its depiction of everyday life and natural landscapes.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Jan van de Velde the younger (1593 – c. 1 November 1641) was a Dutch Golden Age painter and printmaker, mostly of animal, landscape and still-life subjects. He was the son of Jan van de Velde the Elder and the father of…
