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A Waterfall

Waterfalls were one of this artist’s favourite subjects. The Dutch artist Jacob van Ruisdael (c. 1629-1682) is thought to have encountered such waterfalls through the works of the Dutch painter and printmaker Allan van Everdingen (1621–75) who had travelled to the south-eastern coast of Norway and western Sweden in 1644. This painting exemplifies Ruisdael’s ability to create the impression of rushing water and a wild natural setting. It is not at all obvious that the painting is a work of the artist’s imagination.   

The blues, whites and greys of the clouded sky create a sense of depth and perspective when contrasted with the earthy tones of the rocks and foliage. The waterfall provides a focal point for the painting, drawing the eye of the viewer to the crashing and foaming of running water down the composition.

Currently on display

Artist
Jacob van Ruisdael
Date
1670–79
Location
Gallery 11
Dimensions
98.5 x 83.4 cm
Materials
Oil on canvas
Inscription
Signed, lower centre right: JvRui?dael [JvR in monogram]
Acquisition
Bourgeois Bequest, 1811
Accession number
DPG105
Notes
Adopted in loving memory of John Elston Gardener by his wife Suzanne and children James, David and Catherine, 2000