This captivating artwork features a solitary figure of a woman standing against the backdrop of tumultuous waters, embodying both resilience and introspection. Clad in traditional garb, her silhouette is accentuated by the vibrant red and black of her outer garments—a bold contrast to the muted tones of the ocean. The strokes have a spontaneous, almost urgent quality, conveying movement and emotion; beneath the texture one can sense the artist's vigorous brushwork bringing the scene to life. The woman's face, intentionally obscured, invites viewers to speculate on her thoughts and feelings as she gazes towards the horizon.

Van Gogh’s choice of composition—a lone figure anchored against an expansive backdrop—creates a powerful narrative, evoking themes of longing and solitude. The colors, primarily deep blues and greens scattered with bursts of firey red, serve to enrich the emotional impact of this poignant scene. The turbulent brushstrokes of the sea mirror the psychological state of the woman, as if she too is navigating through her own tempestuous waters. Historically, Van Gogh was deeply influenced by the lives of women in rural communities and maritime settings. This piece, profound in its simplicity, stands as a significant contribution to the portrayal of women in late 19th-century art, imbued with a raw and evocative quality that continues to resonate with viewers today.