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Dune Landscape with Oak Tree

1650–55
Not on view
The image of the oak tree is one for which Ruisdael is justly well known. In this highly finished drawing, which must have had an independent status since the artist monogrammed it, the majestic tree takes center stage atop a dune around which a small stream trickles. The footbridge crossing the gulley and the thatch hut nestled in the trees introduce a human element, whereas the high dunes in the background enhance the heroic character of this intimate view of nature imparted by its composition. With simply a light sketch in chalk elaborated with semi-opaque gray washes, Ruisdael created a sense of atmosphere and deeply receding space that belie the size of the paper on which the drawing is made.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Dune Landscape with Oak Tree
  • Artist: Jacob van Ruisdael (Dutch, Haarlem 1628/29–1682 Amsterdam)
  • Date: 1650–55
  • Medium: Black chalk, brush and gray wash, and gouache; framing lines in pen and brown ink
  • Dimensions: 8 1/4 x 7 1/2 in. (21.0 x 19.1 cm)
  • Classification: Drawings
  • Credit Line: Fletcher Fund, 1995
  • Object Number: 1995.196
  • Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints

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The Little Bridge
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The Three Oaks, Jacob van Ruisdael Dutch, Etching; second state
The Three Oaks
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mid-17th century
A Forest Marsh with Travelers on a Bank
Jacob van Ruisdael
17th century

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