Dik Cor Zaan view Sun Cor Dik

The watercolor presents a scene dominated by industrial architecture reflected in water. Here we observe a cluster of large, blocky structures – likely mills or factories – arranged along a horizontal plane. These buildings are rendered with a loose, almost sketch-like quality, their forms suggested rather than precisely defined. The artist employed washes of grey, brown, and muted blue to convey the somber atmosphere and the industrial nature of the setting.
The water surface occupies a significant portion of the composition, mirroring the structures above in a distorted fashion. This reflection introduces an element of ambiguity; it is difficult to discern where the solid forms end and the watery illusion begins. The interplay between the tangible buildings and their ephemeral reflections creates a sense of instability and transience.
A subtle gradation of light suggests a setting sun or diffused daylight, casting long shadows that further flatten the perspective and emphasize the horizontal expanse of the scene. A small patch of green foliage is visible on the right side, offering a slight contrast to the predominantly grey and brown palette, but it remains subordinate to the industrial landscape.
The overall effect is one of quiet melancholy and perhaps even a sense of alienation. The lack of human presence contributes to this feeling; the scene appears deserted, as if frozen in time. One might interpret the work as an exploration of the impact of industry on the environment, or as a meditation on the passage of time and the impermanence of man-made structures. The loose brushwork and muted colors evoke a sense of nostalgia, suggesting a longing for a past that is both familiar and fading.