JACOB VAN STRIJ | Cattle and sheep grazing in an enclosure

J.H.J. Mellaart

Hinged along the upper edge to an old paper backing. The sheet is otherwise free and remains in superb condition, with the combination of media fresh and vibrant throughout. Sold unframed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This beautifully preserved and freely drawn sheet is a fine example of van Strij employing a broader, more poetic style of draughtmanship, in which he exclusively used the point of the brush and wash, in contrast to his typically more meticulous graphic style. Two stylistically comparable drawings, both depicting riverscapes, can be found on long term loan at the Dordrechts Museum,¹ whilst a signed painting² on long term loan to the Rijkmuseum, shares a number of significant compositional traits with our drawing.

^1. see C. Dumas, In Helder Licht. Abraham en Jacob van Strij, Hollandse meesters van landschap en interieur omstreeks 1800, exhib. cat., Dordrecht/Enschede 2000, p. 42, fig. 55, reproduced and p. 178, fig. 258, reproduced
^2. Amsterdam, Rijksmuseum, inv. no. SK-C-613