Measuring 56 H x 67 W, this large Dutch oil on canvas painting from the 1700s depicts a Southern landscape of a glen beneath a rocky cliff. The expansive valley stretches far into the distance, before terminating at a lake in front of a mountain. Numerous flocks of sheep can be seen throughout the basin, including a group high up on the towering cliff with green trees dotting the sand-colored rock. Most of the flocks in the distance are being tended to by shepherds, but interestingly, a group of four men has gathered in the foreground to engage in leisurely activities as their sheep, cows, goat, and dog await nearby. A few chateaus can be seen in the distance, but most of the architecture is in the style of a capriccio, in that they are dilapidated. The top of a stone obelisk is missing and there are some losses to the inscribed pedestal next to it that supports a lidded urn. Large pieces of broken rock are scattered about, with one slab being used as a seat/table for two shepherds playing cards. Several birds fly in the blue sky, with the setting sun giving the clouds hues of gray, orange, and pink. The peaceful scene is surrounded by a brown wood frame with a thin undulating gilt border that edges the canvas.
Our large Dutch painting...
Category
18th Century Dutch Antique Textile Furniture
