Peasants with Cattle by a Ruin

The signature in monogram on the end of the stone block at the right is false; it is intended to be that of Nicolaes Berchem. However, the picture does not resemble Berchem's work and comparison with signed paintings by Begeijn makes it clear that he was the artist. Begeijn's work shows little stylistic development and is therefore difficult to date.

Begeijn travelled to Italy in about 1660 and this painting is typical of the artist's style of Italianate landscapes.