River Bank with Cattle c. 1645 - 1650

"River Bank with Cattle" by Aert van der Neer, created around 1645-1650, showcases the Dutch Golden Age master's signature style of depicting serene landscapes bathed in soft, atmospheric light. This oil-on-canvas painting, currently housed in the Städel Museum, features a tranquil riverbank scene illuminated by the fading light of day. The composition is dominated by a large tree casting long shadows across the water, while a figure stands amongst grazing cattle near the river's edge, adding a touch of human presence to the otherwise peaceful scene. Van der Neer's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the subtle variations in light and shadow that create a sense of depth and realism. This work is a prime example of the Dutch preference for depicting everyday life and the beauty of nature in their art.