This is a very rare work by artist and aristocrat J.J.J. Storm van ‘s-Gravensande, of whom only two other paintings have appeared on the art market in recent times. 

The painting successfully evokes a profoundly mysterious mood and atmosphere: the great towering storehouses and soaring dark clouds look like something out of a German fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm. The young nobleman has – with immaculate artistic taste – given a depth to the painting: the warehouse on the left is given its character and individuality because its moon-lit facade contrasts with the shadow-enveloped area on the right and the bluish buildings that recede into the background. There is a gentle cascade rushing forth from the wheels of the water mill and a woman – accompanied by two other figures – fills her bucket with water from the canal. The overall effect of the painting is strengthened by the warm red-hot light that comes through the portal of the factory which the water mill powers. When we consider the age of the artist when he made this painting – Jacob was only 23 or 24 years old – it becomes even more impressive.