Frost Fair on a Frozen River with Ships 1773

Hendrik Kobell's watercolor painting, *Frost Fair on a Frozen River with Ships*, depicts a lively scene on a frozen river in 1773. The painting captures the Dutch tradition of ice skating on frozen canals, showcasing a variety of people engaging in activities such as skating, sledding, and socializing. The background features a line of ships frozen in place, highlighting the unusual severity of the winter. The painting provides a glimpse into the everyday life of 18th-century Netherlands during a time when extreme weather events created unique social experiences. Kobell, a talented Dutch artist, tragically died at a young age, leaving behind a small but significant body of work that captures the beauty and detail of everyday life.