The Start
About this artwork
This painting is typical of Van Calraet’s work, particularly in the depiction of dogs and horses. It shows two riders and their dogs preparing to leave an inn and ‘start’ their journey. A wreath and a pewter wine jug hanging from the pole attached to the building indicate that this is an inn; the lady to the left wearing red is the inn-keeper. One man is mounted with his plumed hat and gloves on and clearly wishes to leave, while the other gestures to his companion to enjoy another glass (‘roemer’) of wine. Until the twentieth century, this picture was thought to be by Aelbert Cuyp, as it emulates his work both in its composition and in its use of light.
Updated before 2020
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artist:Abraham van Calraet (1642 - 1722) Dutch
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title:The Start
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date created:1680 - 1722
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materials:Oil on panel
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measurements:Image: 32.00 x 47.00 cm
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object type:
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credit line:Bequest of Mrs Nisbet Hamilton Ogilvy of Biel 1921
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accession number:NG 1493
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gallery:
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subject:
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artwork photographed by:Antonia Reeve
Abraham van Calraet
Abraham van Calraet
Van Calraet was born in Dordrecht, where he reportedly underwent initial artistic training with the Huppe brothers. They were both sculptors, although no sculpture by Abraham is known. Abraham’s brother Barent studied under the painter Aelbert Cuyp, but it is clear from Abraham’s work that he also...