Old TreesPeder Balke · 1840
Romanticism
1840
14.0 x 18.0 cm
In this desolate scene, trees and mountains seem to part ways to admit crepuscular winter light. Like his contemporaries, Balke was drawn to untamed landscapes that were characteristically Norwegian.In this composition and others, Balke deliberately left loosely brushed brown paint—essentially a mid-tone base coat—visible in the lower register, scuttling conventions of finish observed by most painters. This prioritization of painterly effects over verisimilitude did not always find favor with the art establishment: in 1843, a Norwegian critic wrote, “His whole production is merely the mark of a dirty palette handled without discrimination.”
Peder Balke (1804 – 1887)
Discover Peder Balke (1804-1887), a Norwegian Romantic painter celebrated for dramatic landscapes & social activism. Explore his sublime depictions of Norway's nature and unique artistic vision.
About this artwork
- Title: Old Trees
- Artist: Peder Balke
- Year: 1840
- Original dimensions: 14.0 x 18.0 cm
- Format: Landscape
- Copyright status: Public domain
- Color palette: Earthy
- Keywords: “balke trees”, “landscape art”, winter painting
- Color hue: Ochre to Sepia
- Color intensity: Monochromatic
Questions & Answers
What size is "Old Trees" by Peder Balke in real life?
"Old Trees" measures 14 x 18 cm in its original form. Original dimensions are a useful reference when choosing a reproduction size.
Which period of Peder Balke's career does "Old Trees" belong to?
"Old Trees" belongs to the Mature Period of Peder Balke's career. This classification relates the work to the artist's development.
Does "Old Trees" by Peder Balke use strong contrasts or soft harmonies?
In "Old Trees", a gentle contrast is paired with a softly mixed palette harmony.