Haes, Carlos de – Estudio de tronco (Casa de Campo) Part 4 Prado Museum

The composition presents a study focused on a fallen tree trunk situated near a body of water. The artist has chosen a low vantage point, placing the viewer almost at ground level with the subject matter. This perspective emphasizes the scale and weight of the trunk, anchoring it firmly within the landscape.
Here we see a substantial portion of the trunk dominating the foreground. Its surface is rendered with visible brushstrokes, capturing the texture of weathered wood – the rough bark contrasting with patches of exposed, lighter grain. The artist’s attention to detail in depicting this decay suggests an interest in the natural processes of aging and decomposition.
Behind the trunk lies a still body of water, its surface reflecting the surrounding foliage. This reflection is not sharply defined; instead, it appears as a muted echo of the trees lining the bank, contributing to a sense of atmospheric depth. The vegetation beyond the water’s edge is loosely painted, suggesting a dense thicket of trees receding into the distance. A limited palette of greens and browns prevails throughout the scene, reinforcing the impression of a secluded, natural environment.
The painting evokes a feeling of quiet contemplation. The fallen tree can be interpreted as a symbol of times passage and the cyclical nature of life and death within an ecosystem. Its presence near the water suggests a connection between decay and renewal – the trunk providing nutrients for new growth along the shoreline. There’s a certain melancholy inherent in the scene, but also a sense of acceptance regarding the inevitable changes that occur in the natural world. The studys focus on a single, decaying element implies an exploration of impermanence and the beauty found within transience.