Staande koe, en profil 1657 - 1677

Marcus de Bye created this etching, "Standing Cow, in Profile," in the Netherlands during the 17th century. In this period, the Dutch Republic experienced a golden age of economic growth and artistic production. Pictures of animals, especially livestock, became increasingly popular, reflecting the nation's agricultural wealth and the rising status of its merchant class, who often invested in land. Note how de Bye's image is not just a simple depiction of a cow. By presenting the animal in profile and focusing on its individual features, he elevates it to a subject worthy of artistic attention. De Bye subtly comments on the changing social structures of his time, where the traditional hierarchy was being challenged by the growing importance of commerce and agriculture. To understand this artwork better, we can consult historical records, agricultural studies, and art market data from the period. This will reveal the complex interplay between economics, social values, and artistic representation in the Dutch Golden Age.