Cattle Leaving The Village, Dutch School, 18th Century

Magnificent 18th-century Dutch oil painting on canvas depicting farm animals near a farming village.

Compared to the often idealized animal paintings of the 17th and 18th centuries, the animals in this painting are depicted in an almost natural way. Indeed, the tolerant climate of the Northern Netherlands encouraged scientific interest, so the animals were depicted realistically, with particular attention paid to anatomy. However, since live models were not yet painted at this time, the composition still appears rather artificial, with the attention paid to a typical triangular composition. While the females and lambs graze quietly, the bull and the male goat look suspiciously at the farmer's wife milking a cow in the background. The central theme of the work is therefore rather paternalistic and emphasizes the social role of men as protectors of the family.

Condition: This painting is in good condition and shows no visible signs of damage. The corners of the molding have a crack at the bottom, which continues into the rocaille ornamentation in the form of a hairline.

Dimensions of the work:
Unframed: Width: 45.5 cm; Height: 35.50 cm
Framed: Width: 63.00 cm; Height: 55.00 cm