Mountain Landscape with a Bridge across a River

About this artwork

**Mountain Landscape with a Bridge across River** (1704) by Jan van der Meer (II) the serene drama of nature in a compact drawing measuring just 133 x 211 mm. This intimate scene depicts towering mountains framing a river spanned by a sturdy bridge,oking the rugged beauty of European landscapes during the early 18th century. Van der Meer (II), a Dutch artist active in the post-Golden Age period, specialized in such topographical views, blending observation with imaginative composition to transport viewers into a peaceful yet majestic vista. The artwork's medium—graphite underdrawing enhanced by point-of-brush technique in grey and black ink, layered with grey wash, and accented by a brown ink framing line—highlights masterful control of tone and texture. Graphite provided precise preliminary lines, while the fine brushwork and wash created subtle depth and atmospheric haze, mimicking the sfumato effects seen in oil paintings but adapted for paper. This monochrome approach was common in preparatory studies, allowing artists to refine compositions before larger works. As a snapshot from 1704, this drawing reflects the enduring Dutch fascination with landscapes amid shifting artistic tastes toward the Rococo. Its technical finesse underscores van der Meer's skill in rendering light and form, offering museum visitors a window into the meticulous world of 18th-century draftsmanship. (198 words)