Maris, Jacob – Houten brug over een vaart bij Rijswijk, 1878 Rijksmuseum: part 3

The canvas presents a scene centered around a modest wooden bridge spanning a narrow waterway. The composition is dominated by earth tones – browns and ochres – which define the banks of the canal and the structure itself. A dense thicket of vegetation flanks both sides, obscuring any clear view beyond the immediate vicinity of the bridge.
The artist has employed a loose, expressive brushstroke throughout, particularly evident in the rendering of the sky. Here we see a swirling mass of grey and white, suggesting an overcast or potentially stormy day. The light is diffused, lacking strong contrasts; it seems to emanate from behind the viewer, creating a muted atmosphere.
The waterway itself reflects the surrounding landscape, albeit with a darker, more somber hue. This mirroring effect doubles the visual weight of the scene and contributes to a sense of enclosure. The bridge’s construction appears rudimentary, built from rough-hewn timbers, suggesting a functional rather than decorative purpose. A small bucket sits near the left bank, hinting at human activity or perhaps agricultural use related to the waterway.
The perspective is slightly elevated, allowing for a broader view of the canal and its surroundings. The bridge acts as a focal point, drawing the eye into the scene while simultaneously limiting the depth of field. Theres an absence of figures; the landscape appears deserted, fostering a contemplative mood.
Subtly, the painting conveys a sense of quiet solitude and perhaps even melancholy. The subdued palette and overcast sky contribute to this feeling, suggesting a moment suspended in time. The scene is not one of grand spectacle but rather a glimpse into an ordinary, everyday existence – a rural landscape rendered with a focus on texture and atmosphere over precise detail.