Israels, Isaac – Twee meisjes in de sneeuw, 1890-1894 Rijksmuseum: part 4

Here we observe a vertical composition depicting two young girls standing in what appears to be a snow-covered landscape. The scene is rendered with a loose, expressive brushstroke characteristic of late nineteenth-century painting. The palette is dominated by muted tones – grays, whites, and browns – punctuated by the vibrant reds of the girls’ head coverings and scarves.
The figures are positioned close together, their bodies overlapping slightly, suggesting intimacy or shared experience. Both wear heavy winter clothing: long skirts, thick stockings, and substantial outer garments that envelop them in layers. The artist has emphasized the texture of these fabrics through visible brushwork, creating a sense of weight and protection against the cold. One girl gazes directly forward with an almost melancholic expression, while the other looks slightly to her side, her face partially obscured by the folds of her scarf. This difference in gaze creates a subtle tension within the composition; one appears engaged with the viewer, the other withdrawn into her own thoughts.
The background is indistinct, rendered as a hazy expanse of snow and sky. There are no clear landmarks or defining features, which contributes to an atmosphere of isolation and quiet contemplation. The lack of depth further concentrates attention on the figures themselves.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of childhood vulnerability and resilience in the face of harsh conditions. The girls clothing suggests a working-class background, hinting at lives shaped by necessity and hardship. Their proximity might be interpreted as a form of mutual support or companionship within an environment that offers little comfort. The muted color scheme reinforces this sense of quiet endurance, while the splashes of red introduce a note of warmth and vitality amidst the coldness.
The artist’s choice to depict these girls in such a direct and unidealized manner suggests a desire to portray everyday life with honesty and empathy. It is not a scene of idyllic winter recreation but rather one that acknowledges the realities of existence for those less privileged, capturing a moment of quiet dignity within a challenging world.