Strij van Jacob Winterview Spuihaven in Dordrecht Sun Abraham van Strij

The drawing presents a winter scene within a harbor setting. A wide expanse of frozen water dominates the composition, reflecting a muted light that suggests overcast conditions or perhaps the diffused glow of late afternoon sun. The surface is not uniformly smooth; it exhibits cracks and irregularities indicative of its icy state, with patches of darker areas hinting at thinner ice or open water beneath.
Along the left side of the frame, a small bridge spans a section of the frozen harbor. A solitary figure stands on this bridge, appearing diminutive against the scale of the surrounding environment. Further along the shoreline, other individuals are visible – some engaged in what appears to be labor, others simply traversing the icy surface. Their postures and clothing suggest a working-class population adapted to harsh conditions.
The right side of the drawing is defined by a substantial building with an overhanging upper story, supported by projecting timber framing. This structure’s prominent position anchors the composition and provides a sense of depth. The detailing on the facade reveals a degree of architectural complexity, contrasting with the more rudimentary structures visible in the background.
In the distance, masts of ships rise from beyond the immediate harbor area, indicating a connection to maritime trade and commerce. These masts are rendered as delicate lines against the horizon, contributing to a sense of vastness and suggesting a larger world beyond this localized scene.
The artist’s use of hatching and cross-hatching creates tonal variations that define form and texture. The limited palette – monochrome – emphasizes the starkness of the winter landscape and directs attention towards the interplay of light and shadow. There is an overall feeling of quietude, a stillness imposed by the frozen water and the subdued lighting. This scene evokes themes of resilience, labor, and the relationship between humanity and nature in a challenging environment. The composition suggests a moment captured in time, a glimpse into the daily life of a community shaped by its proximity to the sea.