Jacob van Ruisdael

The Life of Jacob van Ruisdael

The Haarlem native Jacob started painting at an early age. His first work dates from 1646. Besides being a painter, Ruisdael was also a doctor. Ruisdael was probably taught by his father, but his uncle, the artist Salomon van Ruysdael, must also have been a great influence.

The work of Van Ruisdael

Jacob painted not only forest landscapes with large central motifs - ruins, watermills, oaks - but also town and seascapes. Ruisdael's compositions are often more imposing than reality. Ruisdael travelled to gain inspiration for his paintings and made many drawings. There are also a few etchings known by him. Around 1656 Jacob van Ruisdael moved to Amsterdam. He lived and worked there until his death in 1682.

Masterpiece by Ruisdael on your wall

Do you want one of Jacob's masterpieces on your wall? Choose from his paintings and pick your own size.