Liggende koe, van achteren 1821

This drawing, "Liggende koe, van achteren," was made by Jean Bernard, likely in the late 18th or early 19th century, using graphite on paper. At first glance, it might seem like just a simple sketch. But let's consider the material and the making. Graphite, even in its refined pencil form, connects the artwork to the earth. The softness of the medium allowed Bernard to capture the texture of the cow's hide and the surrounding grass. Think about the hand-eye coordination required to render the animal's form with such detail. Cows in this era were a sign of prosperity, a crucial part of the agricultural economy. Bernard's close observation elevates this working animal, demonstrating a skilled tradition of close observation and representation. By paying attention to the materials, making, and context, we can appreciate the artwork and the world it represents more fully.