This fine 19th-century oil on canvas by Dutch artist Hendrik Pieter Koekkoek (1843-c.1890) depicts an idyllic rural view.

In the foreground, a river slips between mature trees that twist with early Autumnal hues. While towards the middle ground, a couple rest by their animals. A hint of smoke rises from a cottage chimney.

Hendrik Pieter Koekkoek was taught by his father Marinus Adrianus (1807-1868) and his earlier works carry the same sense of nostalgic bliss. They idealise rural life and celebrate the harmony of nature. From around 1865, Hendrik lived in England where he’s recorded as working in the home counties. However, here the distant uplands suggest that the view could be German, perhaps in the Rhine Valley, where his father often painted.

Signed and framed.

Learn more about Hendrik Pieter Koekkoek in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 47” x 32” / 119cm x 82cm
Year of creation: c. 1870
Condition: Artwork presents well. Craquelure but the paint is stable. Canvas relined. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction highlight: £11,620 achieved for an oil painting in 2005.