Schets van een paard en koe c. 1780 - 1855

This drawing of a horse and cow was made by Jan Dasveldt, likely in the early 19th century. It’s made with graphite on paper – humble materials, but capable of great subtlety. Look closely and you’ll see the artist used quick, light strokes to capture the animals’ forms. The graphite allows for a range of tones, from barely-there lines to darker shading, giving the drawing depth and volume. The texture of the paper also plays a role, creating a slightly rough surface that softens the lines and adds a sense of immediacy. Dasveldt’s skill is evident in how he uses these simple materials to convey the essence of these animals. This wasn’t just about technical skill, though. In a pre-photographic era, such sketches were crucial for documenting the rural economy, capturing the importance of livestock. This drawing then is not just art, but a record of labor, landscape, and life.