Lebret Frans The Witteleeuwsbrug Sun Frans Lebret

The drawing presents a scene of urban life centered around a prominent windmill structure. The composition is dominated by this architectural element, which serves as a gateway or archway through which a road passes. Two windmills are visible; the nearer one positioned directly within the frame and another receding into the distance on the right side.
Buildings flank both sides of the thoroughfare. On the left, a brick structure rises several stories high, its facade punctuated by regularly spaced windows. A figure stands in the doorway, seemingly observing the activity unfolding before them. The building to the right is constructed from vertical wooden planks and appears more utilitarian, possibly serving as stables or storage.
Several horse-drawn carriages are present within the scene. One carriage is positioned directly beneath the windmill archway, while another sits further down the road on the right side of the frame. These vehicles suggest a bustling commercial environment. A low fence runs parallel to the road, delineating a boundary between the street and what appears to be a grassy area beyond.
The artist employed a monochromatic palette, relying heavily on tonal variations to create depth and form. The use of hatching and cross-hatching is evident in the rendering of the buildings and the windmill’s structure, contributing to a sense of texture and detail. Light seems to originate from above and slightly to the left, casting shadows that define the forms and enhance the three-dimensionality of the scene.
Subtly, the drawing conveys an impression of everyday life within a prosperous urban setting. The presence of windmills suggests a period when these structures were integral to the local economy, likely involved in milling grain or pumping water. The well-maintained buildings and carriages imply a degree of affluence and stability. The solitary figure observing from the doorway hints at a sense of quiet contemplation amidst the activity. Overall, the work offers a glimpse into a specific time and place, capturing both the physical environment and an understated narrative of daily existence.