Nature #20 Rien Poortvliet (1932-1995)

The canvas presents a pastoral scene dominated by earthy tones and a palpable sense of quietude. Here we observe a large bovine figure positioned centrally within the composition, its head lowered as if grazing or intently focused on the ground. The animals coloring is complex – a blend of deep browns, creams, and touches of white – rendered with a loose, almost impressionistic brushstroke that softens its form and integrates it into the surrounding environment.
The foreground is filled with tall grasses and wildflowers, their textures suggested through varied applications of paint. A weathered wooden fence runs along the left side of the frame, partially obscuring a group of rabbits huddled together in the middle ground. These creatures are depicted with less detail than the cow, appearing as shadowy forms that contribute to the overall atmosphere of seclusion.
The background is hazy and indistinct, composed primarily of muted yellows and greens which evoke a sense of distance and atmospheric perspective. The light source appears to be diffused, casting soft shadows and creating a generally subdued mood. Theres an absence of sharp lines or dramatic contrasts; instead, everything seems gently blurred, contributing to the painting’s tranquil effect.
Subtly, the work explores themes of rural life and the relationship between humans and nature. The cow, as a symbol of domesticity and sustenance, is placed within a landscape that feels both familiar and slightly melancholic. The rabbits, representing vulnerability and wildness, are relegated to the shadows, suggesting a delicate balance between cultivated order and untamed existence. The overall impression is one of quiet contemplation – an invitation to observe the simple rhythms of the natural world and reflect on its enduring presence.