Strij van Jacob View on flooded Over and Nederwaard Sun Abraham van Strij

The drawing presents a landscape dominated by inundation. A vast expanse of water fills much of the composition, reflecting a muted sky and creating a sense of pervasive dampness. Along the horizon line, numerous windmills punctuate the scene, their forms appearing both functional and somewhat melancholic against the backdrop of the overcast atmosphere.
To the left, a portion of a building is visible, its lower section submerged in water. The structure’s weathered appearance suggests age and resilience, yet also vulnerability to the elements. A bare tree stands prominently on the right side of the drawing, its branches reaching upwards as if seeking respite from the surrounding floodwaters. Its starkness contrasts with the more detailed rendering of the distant windmills.
The artist employed a monochromatic palette, relying heavily on tonal variations to convey depth and texture. The use of light and shadow emphasizes the flatness of the flooded terrain while simultaneously creating an illusion of distance. A dark border frames the scene, isolating it from any external context and intensifying the feeling of confinement within this watery world.
Subtly, the drawing evokes themes of human interaction with nature, specifically the precariousness of existence in a low-lying environment. The windmills, traditionally symbols of industry and control over water, appear almost powerless against the scale of the flood. They become markers of a civilization struggling to maintain its foothold amidst an overwhelming natural force. The partially submerged building hints at displacement and loss, while the lone tree might symbolize endurance or perhaps a silent witness to the ongoing struggle. Overall, the work conveys a sense of quiet contemplation on themes of vulnerability, resilience, and the enduring power of nature.