Veehoeders 1625 - 1718

Curator: This engraving, titled "Veehoeders," which translates to "Cattle Keepers," is held in the Rijksmuseum collection. It was created sometime between 1625 and 1718. The artist, unfortunately, is anonymous. Editor: Sleepy! That’s my first impression. A lazy, drowsy heat just radiates off this scene. Two figures are completely out cold under a tree. I’d love a nap like that. Curator: The work aligns with the Baroque and Landscape styles and also can be viewed as an example of Genre painting with figuration, showcasing scenes of everyday life. This era saw a surge in capturing realistic scenes, and pastoral settings became quite fashionable. The idea of rural tranquility was appealing. Editor: Tranquility is key, right? The guy standing there doesn't seem all that concerned about his napping buddies or the ox that is behind them. I wonder, is it commentary on the working class or just an honest depiction of laborers tuckered out? Curator: Given the socio-economic climate, artistic representations of rural life frequently involved idealization rather than stark reality. Land ownership, the Dutch East India Company, wealth concentrated into cities, the role of Amsterdam as a vibrant merchant center— all of that fostered romantic portrayals that tended to blur, at times, a grittier reality for farmworkers. Editor: You know, despite being just lines etched into paper, it really creates this strong sense of…humidity. I can almost feel the sticky grass and buzzing flies. Do you think the artist aimed to create that sensory experience, beyond just documenting? Curator: Possibly! Beyond the surface documentation, engravers did want to involve viewers emotionally. It speaks to the role of art at the time - offering viewers a respite from their realities, or in some instances reminding them of nature. Editor: It is easy to find tranquility in this picture. It is definitely an outdoor siesta that's calling my name! Curator: It offers an evocative insight into Dutch visual culture and popular ideals through an aesthetically beautiful and small printed object.