Matthijs Maris (1839-1917), Attributed to - Avondschemer in het Bos

Atmospheric forest landscape at dusk, circa the 19th century.

Attributed to Matthijs Maris (1839–1917).

He was one of the most poetic and headstrong Dutch artists of the 19th century. As a member of the famous Hague School, he began in a realist vein, but soon developed a dreamy, almost fairy-tale style in which atmosphere, memory, and emotion are central. His work is characterized by a gentle touch, mysterious light, and a melancholic stillness, often giving the impression of a dream or distant memory. Maris spent a large part of his life in Paris and London and is regarded today as one of the most intriguing figures in Dutch art history.

This evocative painting shows a quiet and enigmatic forest landscape, captured in the diffuse light of evening or night. Slender trunks rise up from the shadows, while a narrow path or open space winds cautiously through the landscape. The atmosphere is hushed, almost contemplative, as if nature itself holds its breath for a moment.

The artist, with a muted, earthy palette and subtle light accents, has managed to create an impressive sense of depth and atmosphere. The play between dark and light is refined and suggestive: forms partially dissolve into shadow, while here and there a soft glow breaks through the canopy of leaves. This makes the work rich in nuance and invites the viewer to look longer.

The painting is housed in a monumental, richly gilded frame, adorned with graceful ornamentation and a warm patina. This imposing frame enhances the dramatic character of the work and gives the whole a distinctly museum- and salon-like atmosphere. The light traces of age contribute to the authenticity and charm.

A poetic and timeless work in which romance, the perception of nature, and melancholy come together. Ideally suited for lovers of 19th-century landscapes, evening and night scenes, and paintings that do not reveal everything, but whisper.

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