Storm 1831 - 1886

Martinus Antonius Kuytenbrouwer Jr. created this artwork titled ‘Storm,’ a print now housed in the Rijksmuseum. The image is dominated by stark contrasts between light and shadow. A visual rhythm is established through the dynamic interplay of dark, rain-swept skies and the comparatively brighter, turbulent waters. The composition is structured by diagonals, from the upper-left to the lower-right. This creates a sense of movement and instability, reflecting the storm’s chaotic energy. Kuytenbrouwer uses hatching and cross-hatching to build up tonal depth, giving the landscape a palpable texture. This technique is particularly evident in the dense foliage and the agitated surface of the water. The artist seems to draw on the Romantic tradition, which valued the sublime power of nature. It is not just a representation of a storm but also an exploration into how we perceive and engage with forces beyond our control. The print invites ongoing reflection on the transience of existence and the enduring power of natural phenomena.