Mannenkoppen, koe en paarden 1840

Johannes Tavenraat made this pen and ink drawing, "Mannenkoppen, koe en paarden", at some point in his career. The sheet brings together a mix of studies: the heads of men, a resting cow, and horses in different poses. Given its sketch-like quality, the image may have been intended for use in preparation for a more finished painting. Animal studies like this were common in 19th-century Dutch art as artists sought to capture the essence and character of rural life. But this artistic interest in rurality, however picturesque, needs to be understood against the backdrop of growing urbanisation and industrialisation. Picturesque images of rural life were very popular, so this study may have been part of a commercial project. To understand this drawing better, we might consult the artist's personal papers, sales records, or exhibition catalogues. Close attention to such resources allows us to understand the social and institutional context of this artwork.