A fine mid-19th-century oil on panel by Dutch landscape painter, Cornelis Jan Bolt (1823-1879). In the foreground, a gentle light reflects from the ripples on a small pond. While out towards the horizon, the scenic layers appear gradually lighter as the hills disappear from view.

Note how Bolt has intelligently guided the viewer by using a large crooked tree as a visual waypoint. This is further enhanced by the use of deeper tones on the left versus an open sky on the right.

Little is known about Cornelis Jan Bolt aside from various exhibition catalogues that refer to his work. He appears to have spent most of his working life in Arnhem. He’s currently represented at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and his works have appeared at Christie’s and Sotheby’s.

https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en/collection/RP-P-1906-4283

Medium: Oil on panel
Overall size: 14” x 12” / 36cm x 31cm
Year of creation: c. 1860
Provenance: Holland
Condition: Areas of light craquelure but otherwise fine. Frame with a little age-related wear.