The Ferry

Welcome, everyone! Before you stands The Ferry, a captivating painting by Salomon van Ruysdael, dating back to 1643. This remarkable piece is part of the prestigious collection of the Louvre Museum. nn Measuring a compact yet impactful 60 centimeters wide and 40 centimeters high, The Ferry transports us to a serene river scene. Dominated by a palette of muted earth tones – think soft browns, ochres, and greyish-blues – the painting evokes a peaceful atmosphere. The sky, a pale greyish-brown, hints at clouds with subtle touches of blue and white. The calm, greyish-brown water reflects the light delicately, mirroring the tranquil mood. The land, rendered in varying shades of brown and ochre, is punctuated by darker browns that define shadows and buildings. nn The focal point is undoubtedly the ferry itself – a flat-bottomed boat carrying a collection of small figures, likely passengers, and several animals, perhaps horses or cattle. These figures, dressed in the dark clothing typical of 17th-century attire, add a sense of historical context. Along the shore, more figures are visible, some waiting to embark, others simply observing the scene. Adding depth and a touch of history, a ruined building, possibly a castle or fortified structure, is visible in the background to the left. In the distance, sailing ships on the river further enhance the composition's depth. nn The soft, diffused light, characteristic of Dutch landscape painting from this period, casts subtle shadows, primarily used to define the forms of the buildings, figures, and boats. The overall effect is one of harmony and balance, a peaceful and serene scene devoid of strong contrasts. The painting offers a realistic portrayal of everyday life in a Dutch river port, capturing a moment of quiet tranquility in a ferry crossing. It's a beautiful example of the Dutch Golden Age landscape tradition.