View in the Nieuwe Kerk at Haarlem

painting by Saenredam

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July 14, 2026

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View in the Nieuwe Kerk at Haarlem is a painting by the Dutch artist Pieter Saenredam, created in 1652. Saenredam was a pioneer of the "church portrait," known for his realistic depictions of specific buildings rather than fanciful architectural scenes. His paintings are characterized by meticulous neatness, precision, and a subtle atmospheric light achieved through a harmonious use of silvery white and gray tones.

Saenredam's sophisticated use of linear perspective was influenced by his study of architectural drawings. This particular work, View in the Nieuwe Kerk at Haarlem, exemplifies his later style, conveying a sense of majestic spaciousness and serene atmosphere. Saenredam was born in Assendelft and later moved to Haarlem, where he became a prominent painter.12

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Pieter Saenredam
…Saenredam’s later church portraits include View in the Nieuwe Kerk at Haarlem (1652) and Interior of the St. Cunera Church at Rhenen (1655), which convey a majestic spaciousness and serene atmosphere characteristic of Saenredam’s paintings.
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…Saenredam’s later church portraits include View in the Nieuwe Kerk at Haarlem (1652) and Interior of the St. Cunera Church at Rhenen (1655), which convey a majestic spaciousness and serene atmosphere characteristic of Saenredam’s paintings.
Read More