Nature #100 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The composition presents a landscape dominated by a group of large ungulates. In the foreground, two deer stand prominently; one appears younger, its gaze directed slightly off-center, while the other, presumably older, faces forward with a direct and intense expression. Behind them, further into the scene, a larger stag is visible, distinguished by an exceptionally elaborate rack of antlers that seem to extend beyond the frames boundaries. A scattering of additional animals populates the background, partially obscured by atmospheric haze.
The color palette leans heavily on earthy tones – browns, ochres, and muted greens – contributing to a sense of somberness and antiquity. The application of paint is thick and textured, particularly noticeable in the rendering of the foliage and the animals’ fur, which suggests a deliberate effort to convey physicality and weight. Light falls unevenly across the scene, creating areas of deep shadow that heighten the dramatic effect and obscure details within the background.
The artists choice to depict these creatures with such pronounced features – the stag’s massive antlers, the deer’s solemn expressions – hints at themes of power, resilience, and perhaps even a sense of melancholy. The presence of multiple animals suggests a community or herd, but their individual postures convey a certain isolation; they seem both connected and separate within their environment.
The indistinct background, rendered in soft focus, creates an impression of vastness and timelessness. It evokes a feeling that these creatures exist outside the constraints of human history, inhabiting a primordial realm. The overall effect is one of reverence for nature’s grandeur and a contemplation on themes of survival and the passage of time. Theres a palpable sense of something lost or fading within this scene, conveyed through the muted colors and the animals’ introspective gazes.