Ontmoeting in het bos 1799 - 1874

"Ontmoeting in het bos" (Encounter in the Woods) is a 19th-century etching by Hendrik Jozef Franciscus van der Poorten, a Dutch artist known for his detailed and realistic depictions of landscapes and figures. This small work, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, captures a moment of encounter between four figures on horseback in a wooded setting. The artist's use of delicate lines and shading creates a sense of depth and atmosphere, showcasing his mastery of the etching technique. The composition, featuring figures arranged in a loose triangular formation, adds to the dynamic feel of the scene, while the detailed rendering of the horses and foliage creates a sense of realism. This etching is a prime example of van der Poorten's talent for capturing both the beauty of the natural world and the intricacies of human interaction.