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Student Artwork Guide

Wheat Fields

Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael, 1670

Name Class Date
Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael, Wheat Fields (1670), Metropolitan Museum of Art. Public domain. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael topimpressionists.com/en/artists/jacob-isaackszoon-van-ruisdael/
Artist’s dates
1628 – 1682
Painted
1670
Medium
Acrylic On Canvas
Original size
100 x 130 cm
Movement
Dutch Golden Age Landscape
Held at
Metropolitan Museum of Art topimpressionists.com/en/museums/metropolitan-museum-of-art-new-york/
Artistic style
Landscape painting
Influences
Romanticism
Notable elements or techniques
Dramatic sky illumination
Subject or theme
Rural landscape

Copyright This work is in the public domain. Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael died in 1682; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1752.

Source: TopImpressionists.com — accessed Oct. 2, 2026

Wheat Fields — Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael Part 1 · The artwork

In context

Wheat Fields — Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael

How big is it?

The original measures 100 × 130 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1620
  2. 1630
  3. 1640
  4. 1650
  5. 1660
  6. 1670
  7. 1680

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 54 at death.

Painted when the artist was 42. The artist lived to 54. 38 of the 62 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael (1628–1682) ▲ this work, 1670 every dated painting, decade by decade

First works: up to 1653 Main working years: 1653–1670 Late works: from 1670

Those three bands split the works this catalogue has a date for into a first quarter, a middle half and a last quarter. They are not the artist’s complete output: a thin stretch may be a gap in the record rather than a quiet spell. The same years with the artist’s life laid along them

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: topimpressionists.com/en/art/similar/jacob-isaackszoon-van-ruisdael-wheat-fields-8Y3GVJ-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Putty #cdbfa8

    Catalogued palette

    • #CDBFA8
    • #31201E
    • #99938C
    • #76675C

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Earthy The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Putty
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Statement How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Softly Mixed Palette How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Bright How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Muted How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael over the last twelve months — 12 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 49.5%
    2. 2 Hong Kong 13.1%
    3. 3 United States of America 12.1%
    4. 4 Germany 6.5%
    5. 5 Mexico 4.7%
    6. 6 Singapore 4.7%
    7. 7 Spain 1.9%
    8. 8 Italy 1.9%
    9. 9 Netherlands 1.9%
    10. 10 Slovakia 1.9%
    11. · 2 other countries 1.8%

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 20 most looked-at works by Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael

    1. 1 The Large Forest 7.1%
    2. 2 A Landscape with a Ruined Castle and a Church 5.0%
    3. 3 Waterfall in a Rocky Landscape, 1660 4.3%
    4. 4 Winter Landscape, 1670 3.6%
    5. 5 A Pool surrounded by Trees 3.6%
    6. 6 The Waterfall, 1665 3.6%
    7. 7 Grainfields, 1665 2.9%
    8. 8 Landscape with a Village in the Distance, 1646 2.9%
    9. 9 Beach View, 1675 2.1%
    10. 10 Landscape with Waterfall, 1668 2.1%
    11. 11 The Shore at Egmond-an-Zee, 1675 2.1%
    12. 12 Landscape with Shepherds and Peasants, 1660 2.1%
    13. 13 Oaks by a Lake with Waterlilies 2.1%
    14. 14 Landscape with watermill, Jacob Isaacksz van Ruisdael, 1661, 1661 2.1%
    15. 15 Countryside, 1650 1.4%
    16. 16 The Windmill at Wijk bij Duurstede, 1670 1.4%
    17. 17 Mountain Torrent, 1670 1.4%
    18. 18 An Extensive Landscape with a Ruined Castle and a Village Church, 1665 1.4%
    19. 19 Landscape with a Traveller, 1650 1.4%
    20. 45 Wheat Fields, 1670 this painting 0.7%

    Together these works take 53.3% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 182 works by this artist, of which 71 were looked at at least once. This painting ranks 45 of them, with 0.7% of that attention. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    Source: TopImpressionists.com — accessed Oct. 2, 2026

    Wheat Fields — Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    Wheat Fields — Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael

    Jacob van Ruisdael’s “Wheat Fields”: A Symphony of Light and Landscape

    “Wheat Fields,” painted circa 1670 by Jacob Jansz van Ruisdael, stands as arguably the most arresting depiction of Dutch pastoralism from the Golden Age. More than just a scenic vista, it's a masterful orchestration of atmospheric perspective and compositional dynamism—a painting that continues to resonate with viewers centuries later. Examining its intricacies reveals not only Van Ruisdael’s technical prowess but also his profound understanding of conveying emotion through visual language.

    A Masterclass in Atmospheric Perspective

    Van Ruisdael's signature style is characterized by a deliberate flattening of depth, achieved through subtle gradations of color and tonal variation. The distant wheat field recedes into hazy blues and greens—a technique known as atmospheric perspective—creating an illusion of vastness and conveying the serenity of rural life. Unlike many contemporaries who prioritized detailed realism, Ruisdael prioritized capturing the essence of a landscape rather than meticulously recreating every blade of grass. This approach aligns perfectly with the prevailing philosophical currents of the time, where contemplation and reflection on nature held considerable sway. The artist skillfully uses light—particularly diffused sunlight filtering through clouds—to sculpt the forms of the field and its inhabitants, imbuing the scene with an ethereal quality.

    Compositional Drama: Figures Amidst Vastness

    The inclusion of two figures—a man carrying a bag and a woman accompanied by a child—adds a crucial element of narrative complexity to the landscape. Their placement at the forefront draws the eye inward, anchoring the viewer’s gaze amidst the expansive expanse of wheat and sky. The figures aren't merely decorative additions; they serve as symbols of human presence within the natural world, prompting contemplation about our relationship with the environment. Furthermore, Van Ruisdael employs a dynamic diagonal line that bisects the canvas, guiding the eye across the scene and enhancing its visual impact. This compositional device contributes to the painting’s dramatic tension—the subtle interplay between light and shadow emphasizing the contours of the landscape and the figures alike.

    Symbolism Rooted in Dutch Identity

    “Wheat Fields” embodies the spirit of the Dutch Golden Age, reflecting a fascination with idealized representations of national identity. The wheat field itself symbolizes fertility and prosperity—themes central to Dutch agricultural traditions and economic success during this period. The inclusion of livestock reinforces these associations, grounding the scene in tangible realities while simultaneously elevating it to a realm of symbolic significance. Van Ruisdael’s depiction of the sky—dominated by swirling clouds illuminated by sunlight—suggests both beauty and vulnerability—a motif that resonates with broader anxieties about the unpredictable forces of nature.

    Emotional Resonance: Tranquility and Reflection

    Ultimately, “Wheat Fields” succeeds in evoking a profound sense of tranquility and contemplation. The muted palette—primarily blues, greens, and browns—creates an atmosphere of calm repose, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the stillness of the countryside. Yet, beneath this surface serenity lies a subtle undercurrent of drama—the interplay of light and shadow hinting at hidden complexities. As Gavin Finney eloquently describes it, Ruisdael “picks the moment you’d want to press the shutter on a camera,” capturing not just what is seen but also what is felt—a testament to Van Ruisdael's ability to transform visual observation into emotionally resonant art.

    Artist: Jacob Jansz van Ruisdael

    Date: Circa 1670

    Medium: Oil on Canvas

    Dimensions: 39 3/8 x 51 1/4 in. (100 x 130.2 cm)

    Provenance: Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913

    Location: The Metropolitan Museum of Art

    Source: TopImpressionists.com — accessed Oct. 2, 2026

    Wheat Fields — Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael

    Born in Haarlem, Netherlands

    early life and career

    jacob isaackszoon van ruisdael, a prominent dutch painter, draughtsman, and etcher, was born in 1628 in the netherlands. he is widely regarded as the pre-eminent landscape painter of the dutch golden age, a period marked by great wealth and cultural achievement.

    artistic style and contributions

    van ruisdael's work is characterized by its versatility and prolific nature, depicting a wide variety of landscape subjects. from 1646, he painted remarkable dutch countryside scenes, which later took on a more heroic character after his trip to germany in 1650. his late work, produced while living and working in amsterdam, featured city panoramas and seascapes, often with the sky occupying two-thirds of the canvas.

    waterfall in a rocky and mountainous landscape, showcasing his mastery of light and composition.

    view of haarlem with bleaching grounds, exemplifying his ability to capture the essence of the dutch landscape.

    view of the dam and the damrak in amsterdam, highlighting his skill in cityscape painting.

    museums and collections

    van ruisdael's work is spread across private and institutional collections worldwide, with notable holdings at:

    the national gallery in london

    the rijksmuseum in amsterdam

    the hermitage museum in st. petersburg

    influence and legacy

    van ruisdael's influence on landscape painting traditions is profound, shaping the english romantics, the barbizon school in france, and the hudson river school in the us. he also inspired generations of dutch landscape artists. notable works:

    view of haarlem with bleaching grounds

    waterfall in a rocky and mountainous landscape

    view of the dam and the damrak in amsterdam

    artist's profile on AllPaintingsStore: jacob isaackszoon van ruisdael

    Museum

    Metropolitan Museum of Art

    On show in new york, United States of America

    A Legacy in Stone and Light

    The Fifth Avenue facade of the Metropolitan Museum of Art beckons visitors into a realm where ancient civilizations resonate alongside modern innovations. The primary building, a magnificent embodiment of Beaux-Arts style completed between 1902 and 1914, exudes an air of classical grandeur. Colossal columns frame the entrance, inviting people into soaring galleries bathed in natural light. This monumental structure was deliberately designed as a homage to European palaces, creating a space that feels both imposing and welcoming. Beyond the main site, The Cloisters offers an intimate serenity in Fort Tryon Park, transporting visitors to medieval Europe through reconstructed chapende and gardens.

    The architecture tells a story of expansion and change. While the current Fifth Avenue location is synonymous with the institution, the museum briefly resided in the Douglas Mansion estate on West 14th Street. The original structure, designed by Calvert Vaux and Jacob Wrey Mould, featured a red-brick facade that remains partially visible today within the Robert Lehman Wing. This glimpse of the past provides a connection to an era when the surrounding area was far from the gilded mansions of the Upper East Side.

    Treasures Across Five Millennia

    Within these halls, one feels the weight of centuries. The collection spans 5,000 years of human creativity, housing over two million art objects. Visitors encounter the imposing Assyrian reliefs, depicting scenes of royal power and divine ritual carved into stone. Greek sculptures embody idealized form and proportion, including the Parthenon Marbles. The museum also holds significant works from diverse cultures:

    Chinese ceramics and intricate Japanese screens.

    African, Oceanic, and American art collections.

    The Cesnola Collection, comprising approximately 35,000 Cypriot art objects.

    A blue-glazed lotus-decorated hippopotamus statuette from Egypt, ca. 1961–1878 B.C.

    The transition from realism to modernism is visible in works like Édouard Manet’s

    Boating

    , which captures leisure on the Seine through its use of light and color. The psychological depth of Rembrandt's 1660 self-portrait offers a study in chiaroscuro, using dramatic shadow to reveal introspection. In the modern galleries, the scale of Jackson Pollock’s

    Autumn Rhythm (Number 30)

    commands attention, with its eight-foot-tall canvas and seventeen-foot length displaying a web of drips.

    Modernity and the Living City

    The museum continues to engage with the present through contemporary artists and large-scale events. Pablo Picasso’s portrait of

    Gertrude Stein

    prefigures his evolution into Cubism, capturing the essence of the American expat community in Paris. Vincent Van Gogh’s

    Self-Portrait with a Straw Hat

    remains a focal point, where intense eyes are encircled by controlled brushstrokes. The institution also recognizes contemporary figures such as Wangechi Mutu, whose humanoid sculptures occupy niches on the museum's facade.

    Beyond the permanent galleries, the museum serves as a center for social and cultural gatherings. The annual Met Gala, held on the first Monday in May, brings fashion designers and celebrities to Manhattan for an evening of glamour. On other nights, programs like

    Date Night at the Met

    occur every Friday and Saturday, ensuring the halls remain a vital part of New York life. Through conservation laboratories and digital initiatives, the museum safeguards its vast holdings for future generations.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Wheat Fields

    topimpressionists.com/en/art/download/jacob-isaackszoon-van-ruisdael-wheat-fields-8Y3GVJ-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Ruisdael, Jacob Isaackszoon Van. Wheat Fields. 1670, Metropolitan Museum of Art. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/jacob-isaackszoon-van-ruisdael-wheat-fields-8Y3GVJ-en/
    APA
    Ruisdael, Jacob Isaackszoon Van (1670). Wheat Fields [Painting]. Metropolitan Museum of Art. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/jacob-isaackszoon-van-ruisdael-wheat-fields-8Y3GVJ-en/
    Chicago
    Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael. Wheat Fields. 1670. Metropolitan Museum of Art. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/jacob-isaackszoon-van-ruisdael-wheat-fields-8Y3GVJ-en/
    Harvard
    Ruisdael, Jacob Isaackszoon Van (1670) Wheat Fields. Metropolitan Museum of Art. Available at: https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/jacob-isaackszoon-van-ruisdael-wheat-fields-8Y3GVJ-en/

    Source: TopImpressionists.com — accessed Oct. 2, 2026

    Wheat Fields — Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    Wheat Fields — Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: landscape, dutch art, seventeenth century. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at The Large Forest, earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael was about 42 when this was made. What in it looks like the work of an artist at that stage?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: TopImpressionists.com — accessed Oct. 2, 2026

    Wheat Fields — Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael Part 5 · Look closely

    Art quiz

    Wheat Fields — Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael

    How well do you know this artwork?

    Tick one answer for each of the 5 questions below. Each has exactly one correct answer.

    1. 1. What is the primary subject matter of Jacob van Ruisdael’s ‘Wheat Fields’?

      • A A portrait depicting a wealthy nobleman.
      • B A dramatic seascape featuring turbulent waves.
      • C A serene landscape showcasing a wheat field with people walking through it.

    2. 2. According to the description, what is notable about the sky in ‘Wheat Fields’?

      • A It’s entirely overcast and devoid of color.
      • B It’s filled with dramatic clouds creating a striking backdrop.
      • C It’s a calm expanse of blue reflecting the daytime sun.

    3. 3. The description mentions two horses in the painting. Where are they positioned?

      • A One horse is prominently displayed in the center of the field.
      • B Both horses are located on the far left edge of the canvas.
      • C One horse appears towards the right side of the painting.

    4. 4. What artistic technique did Jacob van Ruisdael employ to convey a sense of movement and drama in ‘Wheat Fields’?

      • A He utilized meticulous detail to depict every grain of wheat.
      • B He skillfully employed chiaroscuro—the contrast between light and dark—to create depth and atmosphere.
      • C He incorporated geometric shapes into the composition.

    5. 5. The description suggests that ‘Wheat Fields’ reflects a broader cultural significance. What does it symbolize?

      • A A celebration of aristocratic grandeur.
      • B An idealized representation of rural life and harmony.
      • C A commentary on the anxieties of urban society.

    My score: ____ out of 5

    Answer key — for the teacher

    This starts a fresh printed page, so it can simply be left out of the copies.

    1C · 2B · 3C · 4B · 5B

    Check any answer against the catalogue record for this painting

    Source: TopImpressionists.com — accessed Oct. 2, 2026

    Wheat Fields — Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael Part 6 · Art quiz

    Questions & Answers

    Does "Wheat Fields" by Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael use strong contrasts or soft harmonies?

    The color analysis of "Wheat Fields" by Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael records a statement contrast and a softly mixed palette harmony.

    Can I watch "Wheat Fields" as a full-screen slideshow?

    The diaporama of "Wheat Fields" can be watched on the artwork's Diaporama page.

    What stage of Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael's development does "Wheat Fields" represent?

    "Wheat Fields" belongs to the Mature Period of Jacob Isaackszoon Van Ruisdael's career. This classification relates the work to the artist's development.