Lot 45: Abraham Beerstraten (active Amsterdam 1652-1665)

The Nieuwe Brug and the Paalhuis, Amsterdam, with townsfolk skating on the frozen canal
signed and dated 'A Beerstraaten 1665' (lower right)
oil on canvas
32 5/8 x 42 3/4 in. (83 x 108.6 cm.)

G.R. Schwerdt J.P., Old Alresford House, Hampshire; Christie's, London, 20 June 1930, lot 62 (85 gns.).

The view depicted is of the Nieuwe Brug (The New Bridge) and the Paalhuis. Built in the second half of the 14th century, these two buildings formed part of a complex designed to protect the city of Amsterdam from both enemies and its surrounding water. The Paalhuis was, until 1681, a tollhouse where the harbour dues were paid. It was built on top of the Nieuwe Brug which crossed the Damrak, the old central harbour of Amsterdam. The Nieuwe Brug was pulled down when the Damrak was filled-up in 1883. On the very right, one can just see the tower of the Old Church.

The Beerstraaten were a Dutch family of artists, including most prominently Jan Abrahamsz. (1622-1666) and his eldest son, Abraham. Both artists specialised in paintings of winter landscapes, sea battles and southern sea ports. A similar composition, by Jan Abrahamsz., is in the Historisch Museum, Amsterdam.

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