Story: Perceptions of the landscape

‘Mount Rolleston and the Otira River’

‘Mount Rolleston and the Otira River’

The rushing water, dark swirling clouds and flash of light in this 1893 oil painting by Petrus van der Velden were typical of European artworks which set out to evoke the sublime. New Zealand’s dramatic alpine scenery, volcanic eruptions and stormy weather were excellent subjects for a sublime aesthetic.

Using this item

Auckland Art Gallery – Toi o Tāmaki
Oil painting by Petrus van der Velden

Permission of Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Jock Phillips, 'Perceptions of the landscape - A Romantic landscape', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/artwork/14395/mount-rolleston-and-the-otira-river (accessed 20 April 2024)

Story by Jock Phillips, published 24 Sep 2007