The Haarlem-born painter Jacob van Ruisdael (ca. 1628-1682) began to paint at an early age. His first work dates from 1646. Ruisdael probably had lessons from his father, but his uncle, the artist Salomon van Ruysdael, must also have been a great influence on the young painter. As well as being a painter, Ruisdael was also a doctor. He painted not only woodland landscapes with strong, central motifs such as ruins, watermills and oaks, but also cityscapes and seascapes. Ruisdael's compositions are often more imposing than reality. His 'Bentheim Castle' and 'Windmill at Wijk bij Duurstede' are good examples of this.