Maris, Jacob – Stadsgezicht, 1885-1887 Rijksmuseum: part 2

The canvas presents a cityscape dominated by water and overcast skies. Here we observe a wide expanse of waterway, likely a canal or harbor, filled with numerous vessels of varying sizes. The boats are predominantly sailing ships, their masts rising prominently against the muted sky. Several appear laden with cargo, suggesting commercial activity.
Along the left side of the composition, buildings line the waterfront. They are rendered in a somewhat indistinct manner, their details softened by distance and atmospheric perspective. Their architecture suggests an urban setting, possibly a port city. A church spire is visible further back, adding verticality to the scene and hinting at a historical or established community.
The artist employed a palette of subdued tones – grays, browns, and muted greens – which contribute to a sense of melancholy and quietude. The light is diffused, lacking strong contrasts; this reinforces the impression of an overcast day. Brushwork appears loose and expressive, particularly in the depiction of water and sky, conveying movement and atmospheric conditions.
A flock of birds flies across the upper portion of the painting, adding a dynamic element to the otherwise still scene. Their presence introduces a sense of life and freedom against the backdrop of the urban environment.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of industry and daily life within an urban setting. The boats suggest trade and commerce as vital components of the citys existence. However, the somber color scheme and diffused light evoke a feeling of introspection rather than celebration. It is not a depiction of bustling activity but rather a quiet observation of a working port, imbued with a sense of solitude and perhaps even a touch of nostalgia for a bygone era. The indistinctness of the buildings and figures suggests an interest in capturing atmosphere over precise detail, prioritizing mood and overall impression.