Matthijs Maris
Matthijs Maris began his career alongside his brothers, Jacob and Willem, as a member of the Hague School. While his siblings found success with realistic Dutch scenes, Matthijs moved to London and became an isolated figure. He was fascinated by the work of Jean-François Millet, even creating his own versions of the French master's compositions. He spent his later years in a small flat, often refusing to sell his work or even finish it. He would frequently paint over completed sections, seeking a specific atmosphere that existed only in his mind.
Biography
His style shifted from the clear realism of his youth towards a misty, ethereal quality. Works like Young Girl with Butterflies demonstrate this transition into symbolism. He used dry paint and multiple layers to create a texture that looks like stone or old fresco. His subjects often appear through a haze, as if seen through a veil or a dream. This technique made his work distinct from the more literal interpretations of his contemporaries.
Modern collectors value Maris for his departure from traditional Dutch realism. His etchings and paintings possess a quiet, atmospheric quality that suits minimalist or contemporary interiors. The muted colour palette and soft focus of his work provide a sense of calm. Because he produced fewer works than his prolific brothers, his prints offer a look at a more private, visionary side of nineteenth-century art.
Notable Works
Tap to view larger.
Matthijs Maris prints
Hand-finished archival prints from Matthijs Maris's body of work.
Take Matthijs Maris home.
See all Matthijs Maris prints →Frequently Asked Questions
When was Matthijs Maris born?
Matthijs Maris was born in 1839 and died in 1917.What is Matthijs Maris known for?
Matthijs Maris is known for matthijs Maris was a visionary Dutch artist who moved beyond the realism of the Hague School to create ethereal, dreamlike paintings and etchings.