Thomas Major, “View of the Canal near Haarlem”, c. 1750–55

Thomas Major (1719–1799)

“View of the Canal near Haarlem” (Vûe du Canal proche de Haerlem), circa 1750–55

Description

A tranquil river landscape at the edge of twilight, with the moon’s reflection shimmering on a Haarlem canal. In the foreground, a figure with a long pole works among the reeds along the bank. Further back, fishing boats and a line of stakes mark the edges of a fish trap. This exceptional 18th-century etching epitomises the spirit of Dutch Golden Age painting, translating the soft, luminous glow of a cloud-swept night sky into a delicate play of moonlight fracturing across the ripples of water.

Technical Details & Condition:

Etching on heavy laid paper, trimmed around the platemark and professionally backed on archival-quality washi paper for support and ease of mounting.

This print is based on a painting by Aert van der Neer (also known as Aert van der Meer, and Aert Egeromsz. van der Neer) (circa 1603–1677). It was published in Amsterdam by Pierre Fouquet Junior (active circa 1750–1800) and in Paris by François Basan (also known as Pierre François Basan and Basan et Poignant) (1723–1797).

This is a strong, evenly printed impression. Aside from a restored tear in the lower margin and minor marks, the sheet remains in good condition.

Dimensions:

• Sheet: 36.0 x 30.7 cm
• Platemark: 36.0 x 30.6 cm
• Image borderline: 30.7 x 28.5 cm

In-Plate Lettering (below the image border):

• Left: “Vanderneer Pinx^t:”
• Centre: “Vûe du Canal proche de Haerlem. / Gravé d'après le Tableau Original de Vanderneer de même grandeur. / a Amsterdam chez Fouquet Junior. AParis chez Basan graveur ruë S^t. Jaques.”
• Right “Major Sculp^t.”

References:

• Hollstein Dutch 15
• Rijksmuseum: Object Number RP-P-1929-111 — https://id.rijksmuseum.nl/200446978
• British Museum: Museum Number 1861,1109.181— https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/P_1861-1109-181

Price & Shipping:

AU$237 (approximately US$165.34 / €145.25 / £124.21), including worldwide express shipping. Import duties and taxes are the buyer’s responsibility.

If you are interested in acquiring this deeply romantic nocturnal canal scene—where the moon casts its reflection through a line of fishing stakes in the foreground—please contact me at oz_jim@printsandprinciples.com. I am happy to provide a secure PayPal invoice for a seamless purchase.