Gerrit Maes (1649–1706 Or Later), Attributed To, Richly Decorated River Landscape

Gerrit Maes (1649-1706, or later), attributed
Richly adorned riverscape
Signed and dated in the mid-frame, presumably ‘Maasius F. 1695’
Oil on canvas
Dimensions excl. frame: 58 x 82 cm.
Dimensions incl. frame: 66 x 91 cm.

In good condition, relined.

Displaying a rich tapestry of the Dutch Golden Age’s penchant for idyllic visions, this late 17th-century landscape painting invites viewers into a meticulously crafted panorama. Signed “Maasius” in the mid-frame, the work is highly likely from the hand of Rotterdam painter Gerrit Maes (1649-1706 or later), of whom only a small body of work is currently known. Gerrit Maes, like his brother Pieter van Mase (ca. 1650-1703), signed his works with the Latinized “Maasius”. While more works by Pieter are known, the paintings of the brothers share similarities in their handling. However, Gerrit’s style is considered more refined, making him a strong candidate as the painter of this particular landscape.

Hogenban, near Overschie (Rotterdam), was home to the brothers Pieter and Gerrit van Maes, also known as Maasius, who maintained a painting studio and actively engaged in the art trade. Gerrit’s connection to the landscape painter Johannes Penninks (1627-after 1698) (Gerrit was married to Maria Pennis), who may have spent some time in Italy as ‘Il Pennito’, may have influenced his style.
Living near the Schie canal, Gerrit would have been familiar with the comings and goings of trekschuiten (towboats) and the activities around the Veerhuis (ferry house). From their home in Hogenban, across the Groote Brug from Overschie, the Maes brothers had a view of the ships that moored to pay toll. It is conceivable that Gerrit Maes, in creating this “richly adorned landscape,” drew upon his observations of the Overschie area, infusing the painting with elements of the local scenery, such as the waterways or the general atmosphere of the region.