Winter scene with round tower Charles Henri Joseph Leickert

The composition presents a wintry landscape dominated by a substantial, cylindrical brick structure – a round tower – that occupies the central foreground. The towers weathered appearance and slightly precarious scaffolding suggest ongoing or recent repairs. Its presence immediately establishes a sense of history and permanence within the scene.
To the left, a frozen expanse stretches towards the horizon, populated with figures engaged in recreational activities: skating and what appears to be a game involving a ball. A distant windmill punctuates the skyline, its sails motionless against a muted sky rendered in warm ochre and grey tones. The atmospheric perspective employed diminishes the clarity of these background elements, contributing to a feeling of depth and distance.
The immediate foreground is cluttered with details indicative of daily life: stacks of firewood, barrels, and what seems to be a small workshop or storage area attached to the towers base. A group of people – men, women, and children – are clustered together near this structure, their postures suggesting conversation or shared labor. Their clothing appears practical and suited for cold weather.
The artist’s handling of light is noteworthy. The scene is bathed in a diffused, golden light that softens the harshness of the winter setting. This illumination highlights the textures of the brickwork, snow, and foliage while creating subtle gradations of tone across the landscape. The overall effect is one of quiet observation rather than dramatic action.
Subtextually, the painting seems to explore themes of community, resilience, and the passage of time. The round tower serves as a visual anchor – a symbol of enduring presence amidst the transient nature of human activity and seasonal change. The figures’ engagement in leisure activities on the frozen water suggests an ability to find joy even within challenging conditions. The details of daily life – the firewood, the workshop, the shared gathering – underscore the importance of social bonds and practical skills for survival and well-being. There is a sense of ordered activity, suggesting a society that values both work and recreation.

The painting’s muted palette and realistic depiction contribute to an atmosphere of quiet contemplation, inviting viewers to reflect on the rhythms of rural life and the enduring relationship between humanity and its environment.