Strij van Jacob Winterscene at Spuipoort Sun Jacob van Strij

The drawing presents a wintry urban scene rendered in monochrome ink wash and pen. A palpable sense of cold permeates the composition; snow blankets the ground, accumulating on architectural details and obscuring the lower portions of buildings. The artist has employed a loose, expressive line to delineate forms, creating a textured surface that mimics the unevenness of the snow cover.
The central focus lies upon a suspended bridge spanning what appears to be a canal or moat. Its delicate structure contrasts with the solidity of the surrounding structures – a cluster of buildings on the left and a more distant grouping on the right. The architecture suggests an older, possibly fortified urban setting; the presence of towers and thick walls hints at a history of defense.
A small group of figures is positioned near the foreground, adding scale to the scene and suggesting human activity within this cold environment. A man and woman, bundled in what appear to be heavy cloaks, are accompanied by a dog, their postures conveying a sense of quiet endurance against the elements. The deliberate placement of these individuals draws attention to the everyday resilience of life even amidst harsh conditions.
The light source appears to originate from behind the viewer, casting long shadows and creating a diffused illumination that softens the edges of forms. This contributes to an overall atmosphere of stillness and introspection. The artist’s use of hatching and cross-hatching creates tonal variations, suggesting depth and volume within the scene.
Beyond the immediate visual elements, the drawing evokes themes of isolation, perseverance, and the quiet beauty found in commonplace moments. The starkness of the winter landscape underscores a sense of vulnerability while simultaneously highlighting the enduring nature of human connection and community. It is not merely a depiction of a place but an exploration of atmosphere and emotional resonance.