This charming 19th-century rural scene captures a view through a village towards a distant church. The wheels of a small wagon create dust as the driver pauses to talk with a mother and child. Alongside, a rustic old building in the traditional Dutch style.

The work is attributed to an artist working in the circle of Pieter Gerardus Vertin (1819-1893). Vertin hailed from The Hague but spent most of his career in Amsterdam. His works reflect his great respect for the Dutch masters of the 17th-century and typically depict historic architecture. They take a rose-tinted glance at the past, an idealised notion of yesteryear.

Vertin probably didn’t complete this particular work but the artist was clearly a keen admirer - and most likely knew him well.

Housed within a 19th-century gilt frame with beautiful foliate decoration.

Medium: Oil on panel
Overall size: 17” x 19½” / 43cm x 49cm
Year of creation: c. 1870
Condition: Craquelure but the paint is stable. Frame with some accumulated wear.