Pieter ten Cate (1869-1937) - Autumn Landscape

This enchanting autumn scene by Pieter ten Cate (Scherpenzeel, January 21, 1869 – Zutphen, February 18, 1937) is a captivating example of late 19th-century Dutch landscape artistry.

Educated at the prestigious Royal Academy of Art in The Hague, Ten Cate studied under renowned painters such as H.O. van Thol, W.B. Tholen, and G.H. Breitner. Influenced by Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, his works are celebrated for their vivid use of color, masterful interplay of light, and expressive brushwork. Ten Cate is particularly admired for his evocative landscapes and lifelike still lifes, which reflect his deep connection to the natural world.

This piece’s compact size indicates it is an "en plein air" painting, created outdoors using a portable "box easel". The mid-19th-century innovation of paint tubes and portable easels allowed artists to work directly in nature, capturing fleeting shifts in light and atmosphere. Collectors value these "en plein air" works more for their immediacy and as original studies which later are used to inform larger studio-produced compositions.

Ten Cate's hallmark orange-and-green palette is on full display here, with warm hues creating a striking contrast to the natural greens. The glowing sky evokes either dawn or sunset, leaving an air of mystery and tranquility.

Although Ten Cate experienced moderate success during his lifetime, his work faded from prominence following his death in 1937. Rediscovered later in the 20th century, his art is now celebrated and displayed in galleries, earning rightful recognition as a testament to the Dutch landscape tradition.

Painting dimensions: 33 x 21.5 x 1.5 cm
Dimensions with frame: 45 x 34.5 x 5 cm
Signed lower right

The condition of the painting and the frame is as shown in pictures. Product color may slightly vary due to photographic lighting sources or your monitor settings. Dimensions and weight of the painting, frame and packaging are approximate and may vary slightly. In case of shipping, painting will be carefully wrapped in bubble wrap and carton box.