Painted probably around 1600, this is an early example of pure landscape without religious subject matter. It is painted on a poplar panel, the wood most commonly used by Italians. The composition follows an engraving after Pieter Bruegel the Elder. It was conceivably painted by an Italian artist in imitation of a Netherlandish original. Note especially the figure of the artist sketching at the lower left.
Key facts
Artist dates
active 1550/1; died 1569
Full title
Landscape: A River among Mountains
Date made
about 1600
Medium and support
Oil on poplar
Dimensions
50.8 × 68.9 cm
Acquisition credit
Bought, 1889
Inventory number
NG1298
Location in Gallery
