A Dutch Daubigny. Charles-François Daubigny (1817-1878) in Holland

Abstract

Like many French artists before him, Charles-François Daubigny visited Holland in 1871. Up until now, scholars have described Daubigny’s reasons for coming here as rather traditional, in which he mostly wished to see the masterpieces of the Golden Age. On the other hand, younger artists such as Monet are claimed to have visited Holland more for its present instead of its past, painting the Dutch landscape itself. This was partially stimulated by a growing popularity of the Dutch landscape in France. However, Daubigny’s late journey coincides with Monet’s first Dutch visit. Over the years, Daubigny’s position in Art History has become that of a middleman between Barbizon and Impressionism. This characterization is mostly based on his painting technique and his early support of Monet and his circle. However, the artist could equally be considered an intermediary figure regarding the art world’s commercial aspect, as can be recognized in his visit to Holland.