Bootjes op het water 1849 - 1917

Matthijs Maris made this watercolour, "Bootjes op het water," or "Boats on the Water," likely in the Netherlands, yet there's no date on it. This small work depicts a serene water scene populated with boats and figures, capturing a slice of Dutch maritime life. Maris was part of the Hague School, a group of Dutch artists in the late 19th century who reacted against the academic art of their time and sought to portray scenes from everyday life and the natural world. Looking closely, we see the muted palette and soft brushstrokes, characteristic of the Hague School, evoking a sense of tranquility and intimacy. The focus on the boats and figures suggests a society deeply connected to its waterways, a reflection of the Netherlands' historical dependence on maritime trade and transport. To understand Maris fully, you need to look into the archives of the Dutch art world. Consider the exhibition histories of the Hague School, and the critical responses to their rejection of formal technique. It's in this context we can best appreciate Maris' art.