Liggende koe, van voren 1821

Jean Bernard created this drawing of a cow in repose, at an unknown date, using pen and paper. The composition, with the cow centered and lying down, evokes a sense of tranquility. The subtle gradations of the pen strokes give the drawing a gentle, almost tactile quality. Bernard's attention to detail in the musculature and soft rendering of the fur brings out the essence of the animal. This approach aligns with the broader artistic movements which sought to find truth and beauty in the natural world through direct observation and meticulous representation. Consider how the artist has used the visual language of the pen strokes to suggest form and texture. The direction and density of the lines create the illusion of three-dimensionality and volume. This drawing transcends mere representation; it invites us to contemplate the relationship between the artist, the subject, and the act of seeing itself.