View of Buildings and Linden Trees in Rijswijk
Jan de Bisschop, mid 17th century
About this artwork
Jan de Bisschop's *View of Buildings and Linden Trees in Rijswijk*, created in the mid-17th century, captures a serene Dutch landscape during the Golden Age. This intimate drawing depicts modest houses nestled among stately linden trees in Rijswijk, a village near The Hague. De Bisschop, a Dutch draughtsman, architect, and etcher (1628–1671), was renowned for his precise topographical studies and copies of classical antiquities, blending meticulous observation with a classical sensibility inspired by Italian masters. Executed in pen and brown ink with brush and brown wash, accented by gray wash (possibly added later), the work exemplifies 17th-century Dutch drawing techniques. Fine ink lines delineate architectural details and foliage, while washes provide subtle tonal depth, evoking atmosphere and light. At just 3 3/4 x 6 inches, its small scale invites close viewing, highlighting the era's fascination with everyday vernacular architecture and nature—emblems of prosperity and harmony in the prosperous Dutch Republic. Acquired through the Rogers Fund in 1946, this gem from The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department offers a window into de Bisschop's skill in translating transient scenes into enduring records, bridging topography and artistry for generations of viewers.