Aert van der Neer (1603–1677) and Studio Moonlit Landscape with Two Fisherm

Aert van der Neer (1603–1677) and Studio Moonlit Landscape with Two Fishermen in the Foreground

Signed with the artist’s monogram on the tree trunk at lower left

Presented in a beautiful Louis XIII period frame in carved oak with its original gilding.
Oil on oak panel, composed of three boards Overall dimensions: 75 × 98 cm. Panel alone: 58.5 × 82.5 cm

This remarkable work, attributed to the Dutch Golden Age master Aert van der Neer, depicts a poetic nocturnal scene: a view of Boom on the River Rupel, bathed in the soft, silvery glow of the moon. Two fishermen occupy the foreground, adding a human presence to this silent and contemplative landscape.
The composition, subtly balanced between a dramatic sky and shimmering reflections on the water, demonstrates van der Neer’s talent for capturing twilight atmospheres and luminous effects. The vast, clouded sky opens onto a moonlit clearing that illuminates the dark masses of land and water. The finely modelled clouds create a play of contrasts that enhances the depth of the scene.
The calm, glistening river reflects the celestial light with an almost tactile precision. On the left bank, a sailing boat is moored, while the two fishermen stand nearby—modest figures, yet essential to the harmony of the composition. Further in the distance, several boats glide silently across the water, their silhouettes dissolving into the darkness, suggesting discreet but continuous river activity.
The opposite bank reveals a small Dutch town, identifiable by its slender steeples and steeply pitched roofs. The architecture, simple and integrated into the landscape, stands out in backlight against the luminous sky. Rendered with economy of means, the buildings evoke the tranquillity of a sleeping town, while the bare trees in the foreground add a touch of melancholy to the whole.
A known engraving and a drawing attest to the existence of this composition, which must have been painted several times, further enhancing the historical interest of this piece. The oak panel, made of three boards, is typical of 17th century supports, and the quality of execution as well as the handling of chiaroscuro are characteristic of the artist.
Artist Biography Aert van der Neer (Amsterdam, 1603–1677) was a Dutch landscape painter renowned for his nocturnal and winter scenes. A contemporary of Rembrandt, he specialised in moonlit river and canal views, capturing with great sensitivity atmospheric nuances and shimmering reflections on water. Although he faced financial difficulties during his lifetime, his work is now celebrated for its refinement and originality. His paintings are held in many prestigious collections, including the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the National Gallery in London.

This painting represents a fine opportunity to acquire an evocative example of 17th century Dutch landscape painting, attributed to one of its most accomplished interpreters.

In good condition. Sold with a certificate of authenticity.