nature #120 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The composition presents two ponies within a muted, atmospheric landscape. The foreground is dominated by a reddish-brown pony whose thick mane and tail cascade downwards, obscuring much of its body. Its head is turned slightly towards the viewer, conveying a sense of cautious observation. Behind it, another pony, lighter in color with a predominantly white coat, stands further back within the scene. It appears to be gazing away from the viewer, contributing to an overall feeling of distance and introspection.
The artist employed a loose, expressive brushstroke throughout, creating a textured surface that obscures precise detail. The background is rendered as a hazy blend of browns, grays, and greens, suggesting a misty or overcast day. This lack of sharp definition contributes to the dreamlike quality of the work. Theres an intentional ambiguity in the depiction; the ponies are not sharply defined, their forms emerging from and dissolving back into the surrounding environment.
The handwritten inscription in the upper right corner adds another layer of complexity. The text, written in a cursive script, is illegible without translation but its presence disrupts the visual field and introduces a sense of personal narrative or annotation. It suggests an intimate connection between the artist and the subject matter, hinting at a private meaning beyond what is immediately visible.
The painting evokes themes of solitude, resilience, and the quiet dignity of animals within their natural habitat. The ponies’ postures suggest a certain wariness, perhaps indicative of a life lived in close proximity to unpredictable elements. The subdued color palette reinforces this sense of melancholy and introspection. Ultimately, the work invites contemplation on the relationship between humans and nature, and the subtle beauty found in moments of quiet observation.