By the water Arseny Meshersky (1834-1902)

The composition presents a tranquil lakeside scene dominated by a rustic wooden structure. Here we observe a substantial building, likely a barn or storage shed, situated on a gentle slope overlooking the water. Its weathered wood displays a rich reddish-brown hue, contrasting with the verdant foliage that surrounds it. The roofline is steeply pitched and covered in what appears to be moss or lichen, suggesting age and exposure to the elements.
The building’s placement within the landscape suggests an intentional integration with nature; it doesnt appear imposed upon the environment but rather a natural extension of it. A small wooden platform extends from the structure towards the waters edge, hinting at its function as a place for work or storage related to the lake.
The water itself occupies a significant portion of the canvas. Its surface is rendered with visible brushstrokes that capture the subtle movement and reflections of light. The color palette shifts between shades of green and yellow, indicating both depth and the interplay of sunlight on the water’s surface. A large rock sits near the foreground, its reflection distorted by the ripples in the water, adding a sense of realism to the depiction.
Dense vegetation frames the scene, with lush trees and shrubs obscuring parts of the background and creating a feeling of seclusion. Distant mountains are visible through gaps in the foliage, their peaks softened by atmospheric perspective. The light source appears to be coming from behind the viewer, casting long shadows and illuminating the buildings facade.
The overall impression is one of quiet solitude and pastoral harmony. The scene evokes feelings of nostalgia for a simpler way of life, connected to nature and removed from the complexities of urban existence. There’s an underlying sense of timelessness; the structure and landscape appear untouched by modern influence, suggesting a place where tradition and natural beauty endure. The paintings subtext might explore themes of rural heritage, human connection with the environment, or the enduring appeal of unspoiled landscapes.