This late 19th-century oil painting by Dutch artist Hendrik Pieter Koekkoek (1843-c.1890) depicts a rutted country road winding between trees with figures and a cottage. Hailing from Hilversum, The Netherlands, Koekkoek was an accomplished painter of landscapes.A vernacular cottage with a tired thatch is buried into foliage - likely constructed of the woodland around it. It’s a patched-up home for several inhabitants who rest awhile before a picturesque view towards Haarlem.Koekkoek was part of a painting dynasty, which originated with his grandfather, Johannes Hermanus Koekkoek (1771-1851). Johannes was followed by his four sons, one of whom was Hendrik’s father, Marinus Adrianus Koekkoek (1807-1868). The influence of Koekkoek’s father is evident in his early works, which are emboldened with the same romantic spirit. Skies hang in great swathes of silky white over verdant scenery, buoyant and sun-blushed.Koekkoek’s father was taught by his brother, Barend Cornelis Koekkoek...