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.