Berchem, Nicolaes Pietersz. – IJsgezicht nabij een stad, 1647 Rijksmuseum: part 1

The composition presents a wintry landscape dominated by a brooding sky and a sense of quiet industry. A substantial portion of the left side is occupied by a crumbling brick structure, its weathered surface suggesting age and abandonment. The texture of the bricks is rendered with considerable detail, contrasting sharply with the smoother planes of the distant terrain.
Beyond this ruin, a path leads towards what appears to be the outskirts of a town, hinted at by the faint suggestion of buildings on the horizon. A plume of smoke rises from one of these structures, indicating habitation and warmth against the cold backdrop. The ground is uneven, partially covered in snow and mud, reflecting the harsh conditions of the season.
Several figures populate the scene. To the left, a man is engaged in some form of labor, possibly woodcutting or preparing materials for fuel. He stands near a pile of logs, his posture suggesting exertion. A small dog accompanies him, adding a touch of domesticity to the otherwise austere setting. In the center foreground, three men are gathered around a harnessed horse or donkey. One man kneels, seemingly tending to the animal’s needs, while the others converse in close proximity. Their clothing – heavy coats and hats – is indicative of the cold weather. A second dog is present here as well, interacting with the group.
The artists use of light and shadow contributes significantly to the overall mood. The sky is a turbulent mass of dark grey clouds, allowing only diffused light to penetrate. This subdued illumination emphasizes the textures of the landscape and highlights the figures’ clothing, drawing attention to their presence within this environment. The limited palette – primarily browns, greys, and whites – reinforces the feeling of coldness and desolation.
Subtly, the painting conveys a sense of resilience and communal effort in the face of adversity. Despite the harsh conditions and the crumbling remnants of the past, life continues. The figures’ interaction suggests a shared purpose or reliance on one another for survival. The presence of animals underscores the interdependence between humans and nature within this rural setting. The ruin itself might be interpreted as a symbol of times passage and the impermanence of human endeavors, yet it also serves as a backdrop against which the ongoing activities of the present are played out.