This late 19th-century oil painting after Dutch artist Hermanus Koekkoek the Elder (1815-1882) depicts a view on the Scheldt River with fishing ‘hoogaars’ and figures.

Moored upon calm crystalline waters, fishermen work aboard a hoogaar with red and white sails. While in the foreground, two figures operate a pulley as they unload a rowing boat. Beyond, several vessels sail under a bright, partially-cloudy, sky.

Over the centuries, the Netherlands has relied heavily on its sea trade and, since the Dutch Golden Age, artists have produced numerous works to reflect this. Hermanus Koekkoek’s motivation was one of national pride and his seascapes possess the realistic style of the 17th century masters. An affinity for both art and the ocean ran strong in his blood. His father, Johannes Hermanus Koekkoek (1778-1851), was also a marine painter and tutored him in his early days. This was a tradition he upheld when he, in turn, tutored his four sons.

One of these, Hermanus Koekkoek The Younger (1836-1909), spent much of his life in London, moving there in the 1860s. Alongside his painting career, he also worked as an art dealer, specialising in works by his family. It’s plausible that this piece, completed in around 1880, is by his hand.

Held in a later gilt frame.

Learn more about Hermanus Koekkoek The Elder in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 28” x 19½” / 71cm x 50cm
Year of creation: c. 1880
Provenance: With the Royal Exchange Art Gallery, London / Private collection, UK.
Condition: Cleaned. Canvas relined. Frame in excellent condition.
Our reference: BRV1895