The picture offers a panoramic view anchored by a large watermill at centre. The vista opens to the sides, offering glimpses into the distance beneath the canopy of trees, encouraging us to wander through the image. Hobbema favoured simple subjects such as watermills, fields and wooded countryside, all characteristic of the productive rural landscape of the Netherlands. Largely neglected during his life, he was rediscovered and celebrated in the 19th century, particularly in Britain, for his artful and natural works.