Artwork preview

Cottages by a River

Jan van Goyen

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a rural scene with thatched-roof houses next to a canal. The horizon is low with houses and trees lining the water. The drawing is sketchy with loose pencil strokes. Details are more pronounced in the foreground and fade as we look towards the canal and distant boats. The color palette is monochromatic in shades of grey and black, emphasizing the tranquil and rustic nature of the scene.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1627/1629
Medium
black chalk with touches of graphite on laid paper
Dimensions
5194 × 2733 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original