Seascape near Heijst c. 1868

Willem Roelofs painted this oil on panel, titled ‘Seascape near Heijst’, sometime in the 19th century. Roelofs was a leading figure in the Hague School, a group of Dutch Realist painters who sought to capture the atmosphere and light of the Dutch landscape. Looking at this seascape, consider the Netherlands’ complex relationship to the sea, one of both economic opportunity and constant threat. The sea is a source of livelihood, yet also a reminder of the ever-present danger of floods and storms. Living in the Netherlands means contending with nature’s power. The painting’s muted palette and low horizon line evoke a sense of quiet melancholy. Roelofs does not offer a romanticized view of nature, but instead presents a more realistic and intimate portrayal of the Dutch coastline. The painting captures the unique character of the Dutch landscape, emphasizing the relationship between the Dutch people and their environment.