De rustplaats (1919)

We are delighted to present "De rustplaats" (1919), a captivating woodcut by the Dutch-Indonesian artist Johannes Frederik Engelbert ten Klooster. In this striking artwork, ten Klooster masterfully captures a tranquil moment under the sprawling branches of a majestic tree.At the heart of this composition lies a serene landscape, where the bold, dark lines of the woodcut technique bring to life a scene of rest and reflection. The scene is set in a lush grove, wherein the foreground, two figures are depicted reclining peacefully in the shade of an enormous, intricately detailed tree. These figures provide a human element that invites viewers to pause and immerse themselves in the soothing, natural surroundings.The elaborate texture of the foliage is rendered with exceptional granularity, suggesting the shimmering movement of leaves stirred by a gentle breeze. To the right of the composition, a rural cart and a distant figure further accentuate the theme of rural life and its connection with nature. The interaction of light and shadow, conveyed through the stark contrasts of the black-and-white medium, enhances the depth and the tranquility of the setting."De rustplaats" is more than just a depiction of a physical space; it is an invitation to escape into a moment of calm, a space carved out of time where one can reflect on the beauty of the natural world. This piece is a testament to ten Klooster’s skill in using the woodcut medium not only to convey visual beauty but also to evoke a profound sense of peace and timelessness.