Johannes Spruyt – Geese and Ducks Part 4 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a scene of waterfowl in a marshy environment, dominated by a palette of muted browns, greens, and grays. A central goose is positioned prominently, its wings partially extended as if caught mid-movement or preparing for flight. The bird’s plumage displays a delicate interplay of light and shadow, lending it a sense of volume and realism. Surrounding this focal point are several other ducks and geese, some standing, others seemingly engaged in foraging activities near the waters edge. A single duck is depicted in mid-flight, its wings fully extended against a backdrop of darkening skies.
The artist has rendered the landscape with considerable attention to detail. Tall reeds rise from the left side of the frame, creating a sense of enclosure and depth. Behind the waterfowl, a dense thicket of trees obscures much of the background, while beyond that lies a body of water reflecting a cloudy sky. The overall effect is one of atmospheric perspective, where distant elements appear softer and less distinct.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of wildlife, the painting suggests underlying themes related to domesticity and natures rhythms. The presence of ducklings huddled near their parent implies familial bonds and the cycle of life. The subdued color scheme and overcast sky evoke a mood of quiet contemplation or perhaps even melancholy. The careful observation of animal behavior – the way they stand, feed, and interact – hints at an appreciation for the natural world and its inherent beauty.
The artist’s choice to focus on these commonplace creatures elevates them beyond mere subjects of study; instead, they become symbols of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring power of nature. The compositions balance between stillness and movement creates a dynamic tension that holds the viewers attention, inviting reflection on the delicate interplay between life and environment.