Landscape with Waterfall c. 1668

Editor: This is Jacob van Ruisdael’s “Landscape with Waterfall,” painted around 1668 using oil paints. I find the dynamism of the water really captivating; it almost feels like you can hear it rushing. What’s your take on this piece? Curator: Indeed. Focus first on the painting’s structure. The artist creates a powerful contrast through opposing horizontal and vertical axes. The plunging waterfall creates vertical energy offset by the horizontal emphasis in the placement of trees, land and even the clouds. What is the effect of these interacting formal structures? Editor: I see what you mean. The horizontal lines seem to stabilize the drama of the waterfall, creating a sense of balance even though the scene itself is quite active. But I'm curious, what about the color? It seems muted but so realistic. Curator: Precisely. Ruisdael's restricted palette, predominantly earth tones with touches of blue and white in the sky, underscores the painting’s commitment to representing naturalistic forms. These choices give depth to the atmospheric perspective he’s created here. Editor: That makes a lot of sense. Now that you point it out, I can see how carefully structured the entire composition is to draw our eyes through the landscape. Curator: Consider how the application of paint mimics these contrasts too. Broad sweeping strokes define the sky. Impasto creates texture in the foliage, and detailed brushwork renders the cascading water. Through his mastery of the medium, Ruisdael directs your gaze and controls the tempo of looking. Editor: That’s fascinating. It really changes how I view the painting now, appreciating not just the subject but the meticulous formal choices Ruisdael made. Curator: And that focus on structure, materiality and composition provides a way to unlock the deeper complexities within Ruisdael’s landscapes. Editor: Absolutely, I’ll definitely remember that approach when looking at other works. Curator: As will I. Thank you.