Landscape with Ancient Round Temple

When he lived in The Hague, Easias van de Velde complied with the requirements of demanding, yet conservative patrons. He followed the earlier tradition of landscape painting, combining it with the Italian motifs. However, his knowledge of Italy was only mediated by paintings or prints. The rocky terrain with a waterfall, unseen in the Netherlands, was used as the basic prop of the composition in this work. At the top of the slope, an ancient temple was situated, reminiscent of the sanctuary of goddess Vesta in Tivoli. The figures of riders and the pilgrim were well known from the artist´s home.