Johan Hendrik van Mastenbroek – View of Amsterdam (c. 1900–1910)
"I could feast my eyes on the magnificent cloud formations and the rich colors in the battle between sun and clouds." — Johan Hendrik van Mastenbroek
In October 1885 Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890) traveled from Eindhoven to Amsterdam, seeking to learn from the brushwork of
Rembrandt and Frans Hals at the Rijksmuseum. He admired their loose technique—remarkably similar to what would later be called impressionism. While Van Gogh would go on to develop his own post-impressionist style, Johan Hendrik van Mastenbroek (1875 - 1945) emerged as a master of Dutch impressionism in his own right.
Born in Rotterdam as the son of painter and art dealer Johannes van Mastenbroek, Johan was immersed in the artistic world from a young age. He became renowned for his atmospheric harbor scenes and industrial cityscapes—documenting the Netherlands’ rapid modernization with remarkable sensitivity to light, weather, and mood.
This small yet powerful painting shows a view of Amsterdam from across the IJ harbor. In the distance, the iconic silhouette of the Koepelkerk (Lutheran Round Church) punctuates the skyline. Unlike Van Gogh’s famous painting "View of Amsterdam from Central Station" showing the same church, Van Mastenbroek chose a position farther out, placing the bustling water of the IJ in the foreground. Figures move along the shore, wooden scaffolding juts into the water, and towers rise above the distant rooftops—capturing a city in motion.
This is more than a harbor view—it’s a poetic impression of a growing metropolis, seen through the eyes of one of the Netherlands’ finest painters of light and industry.
The painting is housed in an ornate new frame by Prins Lijsten, crafted in a traditional golden style that mirrors the elegance of 19th-century museum displays. The richly carved floral motifs complement the earthy tones of the painting, while the warm gold highlights the dramatic cloud formations and flickers of sunlight on the water.
Painting size: 23.5 x 32.5 cm / 9.25 x 12.8 inch
Frame size: 39,5 x 48,5 cm / 15.55 x 19.1 inch
Condition: Excellent—recently cleaned and varnished
Signed: Lower right corner
Van Gogh’s painting "View of Amsterdam from Central Station" now resides in the very
Rijksmuseum where he once studied Rembrandt and Hals. "View of Amsterdam" by Van Mastenbroek, offering a similar view and masterful impressionist technique, may well be the closest—and most affordable—alternative. Your unique chance to bring a piece of Dutch art history into your home.