Philipps Wouwerman (1619-1668), Attributed to - Rastende Reitergesellschaft

Philips Wouwerman (1619, Haarlem - 1668, ibid.)

Cavalry company at rest in an expansive landscape, oil on wood panel, unsigned, verso remnants of a wax seal, label with attribution and English designation, approx. 28.5×38 cm, framed (approx. 50×60 cm), partial color losses and signs of aging

The central theme is a 'cavalry rest' or a scene from the countryside life of the nobility.

* The white horse in the middle is a classic element of composition. It serves as a light source at the center of the image and immediately draws the viewer's gaze to the action.

* The figures: We see a mix of riders in elegant clothes and people resting on the ground. This conveys an atmosphere of movement and simultaneous pause during a journey or a hunt.

Light and shadow: The sky occupies a large part of the image. The dramatic, brightly lit clouds contrast strongly with the dark, earthy foreground. This technique gives the work depth and a certain drama.

* Background: In the background one can see a statue on a tall pedestal and a hilly landscape. This points to a 'Capriccio' – an idealized landscape that combines real elements with fictitious, often ancient ruins or monuments.