nature #199 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The artwork presents a vignette from woodland life rendered in watercolor and ink. Here we observe three animals: a hare, a squirrel, and a duck, each positioned within a loosely defined natural setting. The hare dominates the left side of the composition, its form depicted with a focus on texture – short, choppy brushstrokes suggest fur and movement. It appears to be bounding forward, legs extended in mid-stride. To the right, a squirrel clings to what seems to be a tree trunk, its bushy tail prominently displayed, adding dynamism to the scene. The duck is situated centrally, seemingly poised for flight against a backdrop of muted tones.
The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing earthy browns and greens for the animals and foliage, contrasted with cooler blues and whites in the background. This creates a sense of depth and atmosphere, though details are somewhat blurred, contributing to an impressionistic quality. The artist’s use of ink outlines defines the forms while allowing the watercolor washes to soften edges and create subtle gradations of color.
Superimposed over the image is handwritten text in what appears to be Dutch. While the specific meaning remains inaccessible without translation, its presence suggests a narrative element or commentary connected to the depicted scene. The script’s placement across the animals implies that they are integral to the story being told.
The composition evokes themes of vulnerability and survival within nature. The hares hurried movement might suggest an escape from danger, while the squirrels precarious perch hints at a constant need for vigilance. The duck, poised between earth and sky, embodies a sense of freedom but also potential exposure. Overall, the work conveys a quiet observation of natural behavior, imbued with a melancholic undertone suggested by both the muted color scheme and the accompanying text.