Mountainous Landscape with Waterfall 1650 - 1682

Jacob van Ruisdael made this painting of a 'Mountainous Landscape with Waterfall' using oil on canvas. The materiality of oil paint is critical here. Note how the impasto technique allows Ruisdael to build up the surface texture. This wasn't just about representation. The very viscosity of the paint, manipulated by the artist’s brush, simulates the ruggedness of the rocks and the dynamic flow of the water. The controlled application of the paint allows for a remarkable realism, capturing the play of light on water and the rough texture of the stones. Ruisdael skillfully employs glazing techniques to create depth and atmosphere, which shows a deep understanding of the medium and an interest in pushing its boundaries. These techniques are also tied to wider social issues of labor, politics, and consumption, and the amount of work involved in the production process. Considering the materials, making, and context gives us a better understanding of the artwork's overall meaning, breaking down the conventional boundaries between art and craft.