Liggende koe met een bel om de nek Possibly 1858 - 1859

This simple pencil sketch, “Liggende koe met een bel om de nek” (Lying Cow with a Bell Around Its Neck) by Johannes Tavenraat, dates back to the late 1850s. The artist was a Dutch painter and draughtsman known for his depictions of landscapes, animals, and rural life. The sketch, housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a detailed study of a cow resting on the ground, its head lowered, and a bell hanging from its neck. The artist captures the animal’s form with subtle lines and shading, showcasing his keen observational skills. This drawing exemplifies Tavenraat’s interest in depicting the everyday life and beauty of the Dutch countryside.