Crossing the river Oyat. From the mill Vasily Polenov (1844-1927)

The composition presents a scene of rural life centered around a river crossing. A young woman, positioned centrally and facing away from the viewer, guides a horse-drawn cart through shallow water. The cart appears laden with a large, cylindrical object – likely a container for goods or materials – and its wheels are partially submerged. The horse pauses in the middle of the stream, its head lowered to drink.
The landscape is defined by undulating hills covered in dense foliage on both sides of the river. A cluster of buildings can be discerned on the right bank, suggesting a small settlement or farmstead. Above, the sky occupies a significant portion of the canvas and displays a dynamic arrangement of clouds, ranging from bright white cumulus formations to darker, more diffuse patches. The light is diffused, creating a soft atmosphere that minimizes harsh shadows.
The artist’s handling of color contributes significantly to the overall mood. Earth tones dominate – greens, browns, and ochres – reflecting the natural environment. The water surface shimmers with subtle variations in tone, suggesting movement and depth. The womans clothing is rendered in lighter hues, drawing attention to her figure without overpowering the surrounding landscape.
Beyond a straightforward depiction of daily labor, the painting evokes themes of connection between humanity and nature. The horse’s act of drinking from the river underscores this interdependence. The womans posture – her arm raised as if guiding or urging the animal forward – implies a sense of responsibility and control within this natural setting.
The deliberate placement of the figures in the water, rather than on solid ground, introduces an element of vulnerability and risk. It suggests that even routine tasks are subject to the forces of nature. The viewer is positioned as an observer, distanced from the action yet invited to contemplate the quiet dignity of rural existence and the subtle drama inherent in a simple river crossing.