The Windmill at Wijk bij Duurstede c. 1668 - 1670

Jacob van Ruisdael's "The Windmill at Wijk bij Duurstede", painted between 1668 and 1670, exemplifies the Dutch Golden Age's mastery of landscape painting. The painting depicts a windmill by a river, framed by a dramatic sky filled with voluminous clouds, showcasing Ruisdael's skill in depicting atmospheric conditions. The composition highlights the windmill's prominence, with a sailboat in the foreground adding a sense of scale and the tranquility of the Dutch countryside. Ruisdael's masterful use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and realism, inviting viewers to experience the scene as if they were standing on the riverbank.