Koeien op een open plek, bij wilgen 1860 - 1894

Jan Vrolijk created this etching of cows in a meadow in the Netherlands during the late 19th century. The scene, with its focus on domestic animals and a rustic landscape, evokes a sense of rural tranquility. It connects to a broader cultural interest in agrarian life that developed as industrialization transformed Dutch society. The print's emphasis on open space and natural light reflects the influence of the Hague School, a group of artists who advocated for realism and plein air painting. Consider the role of institutions such as the Pulchri Studio artists' society in shaping artistic tastes and providing opportunities for artists like Vrolijk to exhibit and sell their work. By studying exhibition catalogs, art criticism, and other primary sources, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social and institutional context in which this etching was produced and consumed. Doing so enriches our appreciation of art as a product of its time.