Artwork Description

Pieter Cornelis Dommershuijzen (1842–1928)

Alternate Name: Cornelis Christiaan Dommershuijzen
Title: Dans le quartier juif à Amsterdam (In the Jewish Quarter of Amsterdam)
Date: 1888
Medium: Oil on Canvas
Dimensions: 35 x 28.5 cm
Condition Report: Signed; verso inscription; overall good condition

Description:

This oil-on-canvas painting, signed by Pieter Cornelis Dommershuijzen, offers a captivating glimpse into the Jewish Quarter of Amsterdam during the late 19th century. The painting, dated 1888, is a historical and atmospheric representation of urban life, featuring intricate architectural details and figures engaged in daily activities.

Dommershuijzen’s expertise in cityscapes and maritime scenes is evident in the precise rendering of perspective, rich tonal contrasts, and the evocative play of light and shadow. The brushwork captures the lively ambiance of the neighborhood, portraying an authentic and nostalgic vision of Amsterdam’s historic Jewish district.

The artist’s use of earthy, muted tones with subtle highlights lends a timeless quality to the piece, emphasizing the textured facades of the old city buildings and the movement of its inhabitants. His attention to architectural accuracy and atmospheric realism aligns with the Dutch Romantic and Impressionistic traditions, reflecting a keen interest in capturing the essence of place and time.

About the Artist – Pieter Cornelis Dommershuijzen (1842–1928):

Dommershuijzen, also known as Cornelis Christiaan Dommershuijzen, was a Dutch painter renowned for his landscapes, harbor scenes, and cityscapes. His works often depict European towns, bustling markets, and maritime settings, characterized by fine detail, warm color palettes, and a strong sense of atmosphere. Active throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, his paintings remain sought after for their historical documentation of European city life.

Significance and Collectibility:

Dans le quartier juif à Amsterdam is a historically significant work, preserving the vibrant essence of Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter before modern transformations. The painting’s technical execution, signed provenance, and thematic importance make it a valuable addition to collections focusing on Dutch art, 19th-century urban scenes, and European historical landscapes.