Jan Weissenbruch (The Hague 1822-1880)

Trained at the Hague Academy by Wijnandus Nuyen (1813-1839) and Salomon Leonardus Verveer (1813-1876), Weissenbruch's early work still has a strong similarity to the artistic traits of these celebrated icons of Dutch Romanticism. However as his work evolved and his pallet became more pronounced, the artist developed a unique style which secured him a well deserved place on the firmament of revered Dutch artists. With clear and uncompromising accuracy he meticulously depicted the cities and villages he visited. His work is mostly characterized by his fascination with the Dutch canals, bridges and gables often sharply defined by a direct and strong, almost harsh, sunlight.

The present lot depicts a canal in Rotterdam. Due to the intricate system of canals in Rotterdam at the time of Weissenbruch it is difficult to establish his exact vantage point. In all likelihood the present painting depicts the Blaak with the Leuvenhaven visible beyond the drawbridge. The tower to the left of the composition belongs to the Evangelistic Lutheran Church which was located on the Wolfshoek.