Tressoor #389 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The composition presents a narrow, cobbled alleyway receding into the distance, flanked by densely packed buildings. The palette is muted, dominated by grays, browns, and ochres, contributing to a somber atmosphere. Light appears diffused, suggesting an overcast day or perhaps even twilight.
Here we see a steep staircase ascending from the foreground, constructed of rough-hewn stone. A small, dark animal – likely a pig – is positioned at its base, seemingly blocking the path. The presence of this creature introduces an element of disruption and potential uncleanliness to the scene.
Several figures populate the alleyway. One man, stripped down to his undergarments, is washing himself in a basin of water near the foot of the stairs. His posture suggests vulnerability and perhaps shame. Further along, other individuals are visible – some appear to be engaged in conversation or observation, while others move through the space with an air of quiet resignation. Their clothing is simple and worn, indicative of poverty or working-class status.
The buildings themselves contribute significantly to the overall impression. They are tall, narrow, and constructed from a variety of materials, suggesting a haphazard growth over time. The windows appear small and dark, offering little in the way of illumination. A sense of confinement and claustrophobia pervades the scene.
Superimposed on the upper portion of the image is text written in an unfamiliar script. Its presence disrupts the visual field and introduces another layer of complexity to the work. It’s unclear whether this text is integral to the narrative or merely decorative, but it certainly draws attention to the constructed nature of the scene.
The painting evokes themes of poverty, social marginalization, and perhaps even ritual cleansing. The starkness of the environment and the vulnerability of the figures suggest a world stripped bare of pretense. The pig, the washing, and the text all contribute to an atmosphere of ambiguity and unease, prompting questions about the nature of community, identity, and redemption within this confined space.