Romeyn, Willem – Kudde bij een rivier, 1650-1694 Rijksmuseum: part 1

The composition presents a pastoral scene centered around a herd of cattle and sheep traversing a riverbank. The foreground is dominated by several large, dark brown cattle, positioned close to the viewer, their forms rendered with a focus on texture and weight. They appear to be drinking or wading in the shallow water. Behind them, a larger group of animals – sheep and additional cattle – spreads across the midground, partially submerged within the river itself. The artist has employed a muted palette, primarily utilizing browns, grays, and whites, which contributes to an overall sense of tranquility and naturalism.
The landscape is defined by steep, rocky cliffs rising on the right side of the frame. A structure, possibly a building or ruin, sits atop these cliffs, hinting at human presence within this otherwise wild setting. The sky occupies a significant portion of the upper register, displaying a cloudy expanse with patches of blue peeking through. This creates a sense of depth and atmospheric perspective.
The artist’s brushwork is loose and expressive, particularly evident in the rendering of the foliage and the clouds. Theres an intentional lack of sharp detail, which lends a certain immediacy to the scene. The light source appears to be diffused, casting soft shadows and contributing to the overall subdued mood.
Subtly, the painting suggests themes of rural life and harmony with nature. The animals’ interaction with the river implies a cyclical relationship between sustenance and environment. The presence of the structure on the cliffs introduces an element of human intervention within this natural space, though it is presented as integrated rather than disruptive. It could be interpreted as a commentary on the coexistence of civilization and wilderness, or simply as a depiction of everyday life in a pastoral setting. The composition’s emphasis on the animals interaction with their environment evokes a sense of quiet observation and appreciation for the simplicity of rural existence.