Landscape with a River

The artwork Landscape with a River is a painting, created in 1860 by an unknown author. It is part of the Courtauld Gallery collection and measures 59.1 cm in height and 28.7 cm in width.

The painting depicts a serene river landscape. The river, flowing calmly through the center of the composition, reflects the soft hues of the sky above. On the left bank, a cluster of tall trees, their foliage rendered in varying shades of green, provides a sense of depth and frames the scene. Two figures are barely discernible near a haystack at the river's edge, suggesting a peaceful rural activity.

Further down the river, a barge with a single sail is being steered by a lone figure, adding a touch of life to the tranquil scene. The opposite bank of the river is characterized by a gently sloping hill, sparsely wooded and bathed in a soft, diffused light. The sky, occupying a significant portion of the canvas, is painted in pale blues and whites, hinting at a day that is either just beginning or drawing to a close. The overall impression is one of quietude and harmony, typical of the Barbizon School's appreciation for nature's subtle beauty.