Grazende koe 1635 - 1654

Paulus Potter created this drawing of a grazing cow using pen and brown ink on paper. The composition immediately draws our eyes to the cow, which dominates the picture with its significant size and central placement. Potter's skillful use of line and shadow gives the cow a tangible presence. Look closely at how he varies the pressure of the pen to create depth and volume. The fine lines indicating the texture of its coat and the subtle shading that defines its muscular form. The surrounding landscape, though sketched with a lighter touch, provides a setting that emphasizes the cow's natural environment. The lines are very precise and controlled, giving the drawing a detailed and realistic feel. What is most fascinating about this work is how Potter elevates an everyday animal to a subject worthy of artistic attention. He transforms the ordinary into something of significance. This focus on the mundane reflects broader cultural shifts in the Netherlands during the 17th century, where there was a growing interest in naturalism.