The artwork, titled “Meadows near Rijswijk,” was crafted by Vincent van Gogh in 1882 in The Hague, Netherlands. This piece, executed with wash and watercolor on paper, belongs to the Realism movement and portrays a landscape scene. It is currently held in a private collection.
In “Meadows near Rijswijk,” one observes a rural setting rendered in subdued tones, indicative of van Gogh’s early exploration of landscape themes. The scene captures several figures engaged in agricultural labor, emphasizing the connection between the rural populace and their environment. The background features the flat, expansive fields typical of the Dutch countryside, punctuated by distant structures that merge with the horizon. The use of watercolor allows for a softness and fluidity in the depiction, while the wash technique adds depth and texture, enhancing the realism of the scene. The muted palette and gentle brushwork contribute to the evocative and serene atmosphere of the meadows, encapsulating a moment of quotidian diligence.