Cornelis Westerbeek, also known as Cornelis I Westerbeek, was a 19th-century Dutch artist known for his pastoral landscapes and animal paintings. Born on January 10, 1844, in The Hague, Netherlands, he was part of a family of artists; his brother, Elchanon Leonardus Westerbeek, was also a painter. Cornelis Westerbeek initially worked in The Hague, where he was influenced by the Hague School of painters, who were known for their realistic depictions of the Dutch countryside.
Westerbeek’s work often featured idyllic rural scenes with livestock, especially sheep, which became a signature subject for him. His landscapes are characterized by a naturalistic style, attention to detail, and a serene atmosphere. He had a talent for capturing the changing effects of light and atmosphere in his paintings, which added a sense of depth and realism to his work.
Throughout his career, Westerbeek remained relatively local, gaining recognition primarily within the Netherlands. He did not achieve the same level of international fame as some of his contemporaries from the Hague School, but his work was appreciated for its contribution to the genre of pastoral landscape painting.
Cornelis Westerbeek passed away on May 28, 1903, in Voorburg, Netherlands. His paintings are now part of several Dutch art collections and continue to be of interest to collectors of 19th-century European art. Westerbeek's legacy is preserved through his tranquil and beautifully crafted landscapes that capture the essence of the Dutch countryside during his era.