Strij van Jacob Dutch landscape with cattle and farm Sun Jacob van Strij

Here we see a pastoral scene imbued with a sense of quiet industry and prosperity. The composition is structured around a central, mature tree that dominates the middle ground, acting as a visual anchor and framing the activity occurring beneath it. Its broad canopy provides shade for several figures and animals clustered near a body of water.
The artist depicted a group engaged in daily rural tasks: a figure milks a cow while others appear to be tending to livestock or simply observing. The presence of sheep grazing peacefully alongside the water reinforces this idyllic portrayal of agricultural life. A small farmhouse, partially obscured by foliage, suggests a settled and stable community.
A defining characteristic is the meticulous rendering of light and shadow. The soft illumination highlights the textures of the tree bark, the animals’ fur, and the figures clothing, creating a palpable sense of depth and realism. The sky, rendered in delicate hues of pink and yellow, contributes to the overall feeling of warmth and tranquility.
The placement of the fence along the left edge creates a visual barrier that separates the viewer from the scene, reinforcing the impression of observing a private moment within this rural setting. This distance allows for an appreciation of the harmony between humanity and nature, suggesting a life lived in close connection with the land. The overall effect is one of idealized simplicity and contentment, evoking a nostalgic view of rural existence.