Landscape with a Long Arched Bridge (1637 – 1639) by Rembrandt

Landscape with a Long Arched Bridge - Rembrandt - 1637 - 1639

Artwork Information

TitleLandscape with a Long Arched Bridge
ArtistRembrandt
Date1637 - 1639
Art MovementBaroque
Current LocationGemäldegalerie, Berlin, Germany

About Landscape with a Long Arched Bridge

The artwork “Landscape with a Long Arched Bridge,” created by the renowned artist Rembrandt between 1637 and 1639, epitomizes the Baroque movement to which Rembrandt’s oeuvre is frequently attributed. This landscape genre painting is currently housed in the Gemäldegalerie in Berlin, Germany. Rembrandt’s mastery of chiaroscuro and atmospheric perspective is evident in this piece, representative of the Baroque era’s dramatic use of light and shadow to evoke a sense of depth and emotion.

The artwork depicts a serene yet moody landscape dominated by a dark, expansive sky. Below this sky, a beam of light illuminates a golden tree to the right, creating a striking contrast against the surrounding darker tones. The central feature of the composition is the long arched bridge in the middle distance, which spans a river that reflects the subdued light from above. In the foreground, one can observe a rough path that leads the eye towards the bridge and a figure that appears to be walking along this path, adding a sense of scale and life to the scene. To the right, nestled among the trees, are rustic structures, possibly homes or farm buildings, which merge with the landscape due to the overall dim lighting.

The subtlety of the color palette and the handling of light create a somber ambiance while inviting the viewer to contemplate the quiet grandeur of the natural setting juxtaposed with human habitation. The artwork is a testament to Rembrandt’s skill in capturing the interplay of light and natural elements to evoke emotion and depth, consistent with the artistic ideals of the Baroque period.

Other Artwork from Rembrandt

More Baroque Artwork

Scroll to Top