Liggende stier 1773

This is an etching by Barend Hendrik Thier, made in 1773, depicting a reclining bull. In the Dutch Republic of the 18th century, images of livestock weren't just about rural life; they were tied to the nation's economic strength. The Dutch Golden Age had been fueled by trade and agriculture, with cattle playing a crucial role. Artists like Thier, working within established artistic institutions, contributed to a visual culture that celebrated this prosperity. This etching, with its detailed rendering of the bull, reflects a self-conscious interest in the material foundations of Dutch society. By focusing on the details of agricultural life, Thier implicitly comments on the social structures of his time. The art market was changing, and there was a growing demand for genre scenes and landscapes that reflected national pride. To understand this work more fully, we might consult agricultural records, trade statistics, and art market analyses. By studying the social and institutional context, we can gain a deeper appreciation of art's role in shaping national identity and economic discourse.