J.H. (JOHAN) VAN MASTENBROEK


Artists

Biography

J.H. (JOHAN) VAN MASTENBROEK
1875 Rotterdam - 1945 Rotterdam

Johan Hendrik van Mastenbroek, sometimes called the Breitner of Rotterdam by some, devoted very many paintings and watercolors to the city on the Maas. The works of art all testify to Van Mastenbroek's great interest in the changing of the seasons and their influence on the people and their activities in the city. Like Breitner, Van Mastenbroek chose to depict workers behind tug carts, passers-by, horse and carriage on the quays, sailing or moored barges, harbor scenes etcetera. Van Mastenbroek was concerned with depicting the atmosphere of the city at a particular time of year and showing how its inhabitants moved around the city. A realistic depiction of the surroundings was important in this regard. It now gives us a wonderful insight into old Rotterdam.