Jacob Nieweg (1877-1955)
Scots Pine Tree
Signed lower right, dated October 1914
Pencil on paper
49 x 49 cm
Framed

Provenance:
Private collection, Leiden.

Condition:
In good condition

Extra information:
Jacob Nieweg (1877-1955) was born in the Frisian village of Hogebeintum, the son of a clergyman. After completing his gymnasium studies, he studied theology at the University of Groningen, where he earned his PhD in 1905. During his studies, Nieweg took evening drawing classes with Anna van Prooijen and became acquainted with art educator H.P. Bremmer. Bremmer profoundly influenced Nieweg's artistic views and instilled in him a deep appreciation for the work of Vincent van Gogh.

Nieweg was a versatile artist, known for his landscapes, portraits, cityscapes, and especially still lifes. His work, marked by a keen attention to detail, reflected his respect for nature and life. Bremmer taught him to observe and depict both the reality and the spiritual dimension of the world. His still lifes can be seen as modern variants of vanitas paintings, focusing on the cycle of life and death. He taught, among others, Elisabeth Catharina Bergsma and became friends with Jan Adam Zandleven. His works, including many tranquil snow landscapes and characteristic portraits, are known for their precision and deep observation of everyday objects.

Nieweg initially worked as a clergyman in Ter Apel, Winsum, and Spankeren, but in 1914, he decided to resign from the ministry and devote himself entirely to art. This was the year he created the drawing of a pine tree, likely in the Veluwe region. In this piece, Nieweg plays with the spatial arrangement of the tree, giving the drawing strong graphic qualities. He later moved with his family to Bloemendaal and, in 1919, to Amersfoort, where he lived until his death. A street in Amersfoort is named after him.
Jacob Nieweg remained true to his own style, influenced by Van Gogh, yet always maintaining his authenticity. His passion for art resulted in a body of work that demonstrates both admiration for detail and a spiritual depth. In 2001, a major retrospective exhibition of his work was held at Museum Flehite in Amersfoort.