nature #193 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The artwork presents a scene dominated by a large stag positioned centrally within a landscape setting. The animal is depicted in profile, its antlers prominently displayed and angled towards the viewers right. Its posture suggests movement; it appears to be lowering its head, perhaps grazing or investigating something on the ground.
The surrounding environment consists of tall grasses and dense foliage rendered with loose brushstrokes that convey a sense of natural texture and depth. A warm palette of yellows, oranges, and browns defines the light conditions, suggesting either early morning or late afternoon. The background is blurred, creating an atmospheric perspective that draws attention to the stag as the focal point.
A significant element of the composition is the handwritten text positioned in the upper right corner. Written in a cursive script, it appears to be in Dutch and adds another layer of meaning to the visual representation. Its presence disrupts the conventional boundaries between image and text, suggesting an intimate connection between the artists thoughts and the depicted scene. The text’s placement also creates a sense of immediacy, as if the viewer is privy to a private reflection accompanying the observation of nature.
The overall impression is one of quiet contemplation and reverence for the natural world. The stag, a symbol often associated with strength, nobility, and wildness, embodies these qualities within the paintings tranquil setting. The combination of realistic depiction and textual commentary invites viewers to consider not only the beauty of the landscape but also the artist’s personal relationship with it. The work seems to explore themes of observation, memory, and the interplay between human perception and the natural environment.