Winter Landscape

This landscape comes from a longstanding tradition in Dutch painting stretching back to the 17th century. Conceived as a pair (see Summer Landscape), they were meant to be hung on either side of a window or fireplace. Such pendants were popular with both patrons and painters as they elaborated on a theme. Here, the glow of the summer sun on trees and fields contrasts well with the harsher winter light reflecting off the snow.

In addition to the panoramic landscapes for which he became famous, Pieter L. F. Kluyver created many smaller paintings such as these. He became well known throughout Europe, exhibiting across Germany and Austria in special exhibitions. A native of Amsterdam, he worked in Amersfoort near Utrecht in mid-career.