Paulus Potter, 'Cattle and Sheep in a Stormy Landscape', 1647
About the work
Overview
A bull stands silhouetted against a threatening sky. It seems energised and alert, aware of the presence of the viewer – it makes direct eye contact with us – and of the storm. A strong wind bends the willow trees and a sheet of rain sweeps across the middle distance. Two cows and a pair of sheep remain calmly feeding or resting – images of fortitude and dependability, watched over by the protective bull. There’s a strong sense of independence here, too: there’s no sign of a herdsman, nor other human interference.
Why would Potter cast cattle as heroes? From an economic point of view, cheese and butter were national staples and key exports at a time when the Dutch Republic was on the verge of becoming a fully independent nation. Cows were a dependable source of prosperity, and Potter may have been intending to convey a symbolic message about national resilience and identity.
Key facts
Details
- Full title
- Cattle and Sheep in a Stormy Landscape
- Artist
- Paulus Potter
- Artist dates
- 1625 - 1654
- Date made
- 1647
- Medium and support
- oil on wood
- Dimensions
- 46.3 × 37.8 cm
- Inscription summary
- Signed; Dated
- Acquisition credit
- Salting Bequest, 1910
- Inventory number
- NG2583
- Location
- Not on display
- Collection
- Main Collection
- Previous owners
About this record
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