Aelbert Cuyp

Aelbert Cuyp was a Dutch landscape painter of the Baroque period, born in Dordrecht in 1620 and died there in 1691. He was one of the leading landscape painters of the Dutch Golden Age, renowned for his skillful use of light and atmospheric effects in his depictions of the Dutch countryside. Cuyp's work often features pastoral scenes with cattle and figures, typically set against the backdrop of the River Maas and the surrounding countryside. His style was influenced by the work of Jan van Goyen and Pieter de Molijn, but he also drew inspiration from the Italianate landscapes of Claude Lorrain. 

Cuyp's most famous works include The Maas at Dordrecht, Cows in a River, and The Large Dort, which are characterized by their golden light and tranquil atmosphere. His paintings were highly sought after in his lifetime, particularly by English collectors, and they continue to be prized by museums and collectors today. Cuyp's work can be found in major institutions such as the National Gallery in London, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, and the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. Despite his success, Cuyp's output was relatively small, and he is believed to have produced no more than 100 paintings during his career. He also worked as a draughtsman and etcher, although his prints are less well-known than his paintings.