Boom in landschap 1844 - 1845

This landscape, by Barend Cornelis Koekkoek, was made in the Netherlands, using pen and brush in brown ink and grey wash. Here, we see a monumental tree dominating the scene, rendered with detailed realism. Koekkoek's work reflects the cultural values of the Dutch Golden Age, when landscape painting rose to prominence as a distinct genre. In the 19th century, artists like Koekkoek aimed to capture the national identity and pride through idealized landscapes. These images evoked a sense of nostalgia for a simpler, rural past. The rise of landscape painting was not only about aesthetics but also about the social and economic transformations taking place in the Netherlands. As cities grew and industrialization advanced, the countryside became a symbol of purity and authenticity. To truly understand this artwork, one could delve into the archives of art academies and exhibition records. Doing so might reveal the networks of patronage and the critical reception that shaped Koekkoek's career.