Strij van Jacob Winterlandscape Sun Jacob van Strij

The drawing presents a winter scene dominated by a vast expanse of frozen water, likely a lake or river. A low horizon line emphasizes the scale of this icy plain, which stretches towards a distant cityscape rendered in muted detail. The sky above is filled with swirling clouds, suggesting an overcast and potentially harsh weather condition.
In the foreground, several figures are engaged in activities related to transportation across the ice. A large wagon, pulled by a team of horses, occupies a central position. Around it, individuals appear to be involved in loading or unloading goods, their postures conveying a sense of labor and purpose. To the left, a lone figure is depicted skating on the frozen surface, seemingly oblivious to the activity around him. Two other men stand nearby, one leaning on a walking stick, observing the scene with an air of quiet contemplation.
The artist’s use of hatching and cross-hatching creates a sense of texture and depth, particularly in the depiction of the clouds and the frozen ground. The light source appears to be diffused, casting soft shadows and contributing to the overall atmosphere of coldness and stillness. A flag is prominently displayed near the wagon, its design hinting at a specific regional or national identity.
Beyond the immediate activity, the drawing suggests themes of resilience and adaptation in the face of challenging environmental conditions. The transportation of goods across the ice implies trade and commerce, while the solitary skater embodies a moment of leisure amidst the demands of daily life. There is an underlying narrative of human interaction with nature, showcasing both its potential for utility and its inherent power to shape human endeavors. The distant cityscape offers a glimpse of civilization beyond the immediate frozen landscape, suggesting a connection between rural activity and urban centers.