Three Watermills with Washerwomen

Image credit: The National Gallery, London

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Jacob van Ruisdael’s washerwomen are strong and sturdy. One stands in the river up to her ankles and raises a stick to beat the linen she’s washing, while her companion stoops to rinse a cloth. Behind them a heap of dirty washing awaits the attention of their brawny arms. Their dog lifts his head, alert, as two men dump heavy baskets down on the shingle, watched by a small boy. Behind them tower two watermills which are reflected in the river.

The picture is badly worn and much detail has been lost, but van Ruisdael’s masterly technique and ability to portray atmosphere can still be seen in the mills, grey clouds and clifftop trees, all seeming to dwarf the little scene of grinding labour taking place in their shadow.

The National Gallery, London

London

Title

Three Watermills with Washerwomen

Date

about 1670

Medium

Oil on canvas

Measurements

H 60 x W 74 cm

Accession number

NG989

Acquisition method

Wynn Ellis Bequest, 1876

Work type

Painting

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The National Gallery, London

Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London WC2N 5DN England

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