Tressoor #408 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The composition presents a scene of urban devastation, dominated by intense flames consuming several timber-framed buildings. The artist has rendered the architecture with a degree of detail suggesting a medieval or early modern European setting; steeply pitched roofs and half-timbered facades are characteristic features. A palpable sense of chaos pervades the work.
Here we see a central building engulfed in fire, its structure illuminated by the orange glow that spills outwards, casting harsh shadows across adjacent structures. The flames appear almost tangible, their movement suggested through swirling brushstrokes and variations in color intensity. Smoke billows upwards, obscuring parts of the sky and contributing to the overall atmosphere of destruction.
Several figures are present within the scene. One appears on a rooftop, waving what seems to be a flag or cloth – a gesture that could signify either distress or an attempt at signaling for help. A man stands near one building, seemingly attempting to assist with the firefighting efforts, though his actions appear largely futile against the scale of the disaster. A small dog is positioned in the foreground, its posture suggesting fear and vulnerability.
The color palette is predominantly warm – dominated by reds, oranges, and yellows – which reinforces the intensity of the fire. Cooler tones of grey and brown are used to depict the surrounding buildings and ground, creating a contrast that emphasizes the destructive power of the flames. The application of paint appears loose and expressive, contributing to the sense of immediacy and emotional turmoil.
Subtly, the work evokes themes of vulnerability, loss, and the fragility of human settlements in the face of natural or man-made disasters. The presence of the dog introduces a poignant element of innocence caught within the unfolding catastrophe. The flag on the rooftop suggests a desperate hope amidst overwhelming destruction, while the lone figure attempting to fight the fire embodies resilience and perhaps futility. The overall impression is one of profound disruption and the potential for widespread suffering.