Koningh de Leendert Ferry with cattle Sun De Koningh

The canvas presents a pastoral scene imbued with a sense of quiet industry and rural life. A family group – a man, woman, and young boy – are depicted walking along a path beside what appears to be a river or wide canal. The man wears a dark coat and hat, carrying a basket slung over his arm; the woman is similarly attired, with a head covering and a smaller basket in her hand, alongside a jug. The child follows closely behind them. A dog accompanies the group, trotting attentively at their heels.
A barge laden with cattle occupies a significant portion of the left side of the composition. Several figures are visible on board, seemingly overseeing the livestock. To the right, a sailing vessel is partially visible, its white sail catching the light. The water reflects the sky above, creating a sense of depth and spaciousness.
The artist has rendered the landscape with careful attention to detail. Lush vegetation lines the path, suggesting fertility and abundance. A dramatic sky dominates the upper portion of the painting; billowing clouds are painted with a loose brushstroke, conveying a feeling of atmospheric movement. The light appears to be diffused, bathing the scene in a soft glow that emphasizes the tranquility of the moment.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of family, labor, and connection to the land. The presence of the cattle suggests an agricultural economy, while the sailing vessel hints at trade or transportation. The figures’ attire and demeanor convey a sense of modest prosperity and contentment within their rural setting. Theres a deliberate avoidance of grand gestures or dramatic events; instead, the focus is on the quiet rhythms of daily life. The dogs presence adds an element of domesticity and companionship to the scene, reinforcing the feeling of a close-knit community bound by shared routines and traditions.