Hendrik Jacobus Scholten (1824 – 1907)

Hendrick Jacobus Scholten was born in Amsterdam on 11 July 1824 and he died in Heemstede on 29 May 1907. He was a pupil of P F Grieve and also studied under L J Hansen.  He worked in Amsterdam and, indeed, exhibited in the Fine Art Academy from 1852 moving to Haarlem in 1872. Throughout his life his works were in high demand and he was very successful. He worked generally in oils but occasionally in water-colours as well.

He later exhibited at the “Arti et Amicitiae in the St Lucas in Amsterdam and at the Pulchris Studio in The Hague, Kunstliefde in Utrecht and then finally at a major Exhibition in Haarlem.

H J Scholten painted mainly interiors with figures. He particularly became famous for his marvellous use of light and colour in the fabrics of ladies dresses, especially satins and lace embroidery. In his compositions he would often put the main emphasis on the figures, but even having painted the most beautiful work into the lace and satin dresses with superb skin tones, his observation and technique would continue through to the jewellery and he would pay equal attention to the room details which would include furniture, wall coverings, tapestries and floor. His works are noted for their charm and delicacy.

H J Scholten’s works may be found in the following museums: Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, Stedlijk Museum Amsterdam, Museum Fodor Amsterdam, Groningen Museum, Frans Halsmuseum Haarlem and Boysmans-van Beuingen, Rotterdam.