XVII century Dutch school Italianate rocky landscape with archaeological ruins and horse riders with dogs.

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XVII century Dutch school Italianate rocky landscape with archaeological ruins and horse riders with dogs. 

Size: 81cm x 65cm

Technique: oil on canvas, relined.

This painting, executed by a foreign artist in the 17th century, likely a Dutch painter from Amsterdam who spent time in Rome, captures a picturesque and evocative landscape near the Eternal City. The scene is dominated by a magnificent sky, with expansive clouds stretching majestically, creating a dramatic and dynamic effect.

In the foreground, the rocky terrain adds a sense of natural authenticity to the scene. Atop the rocks, one can see the ruins of an ancient Roman village, evoking a sense of history and romantic decay. Within the landscape, small figures of men on horseback, dressed in 17th-century attire, are accompanied by dogs. These figures add a narrative element and a touch of everyday life to the composition.

This painting is clearly influenced by the "Italianate Dutch Landscape School." Artists of this movement, often referred to as "Romanists," were known for their ability to blend Italian landscape elements with Dutch precision and luminous sensitivity. These artists traveled to Italy, captivated by its light, varied landscapes, and historical ruins. Their work often featured meticulous attention to natural details and skillful use of light to create depth and atmosphere. The inclusion of ancient ruins symbolized the transience of human endeavors and the enduring beauty of the past. The contrast between the grandeur of nature and the smallness of man was a common theme.