Lying cow 

Editor: Here we have "Lying Cow," a red-chalk drawing by Friedrich Wilhelm Hirt, housed right here at the Städel Museum. The cow seems incredibly peaceful, almost contemplative in its rest. What do you see in this simple, yet beautiful portrait? Curator: Oh, but it's more than "simple," isn't it? There's a certain truthfulness to Hirt's portrayal. This isn't just any cow; this is *the* cow, in all its bovine glory. Red chalk is an interesting choice. Warmer than graphite, it lends the subject a certain... vulnerability, wouldn't you agree? Editor: Definitely, it feels much more intimate than a standard study. Was Hirt known for his animal studies, or is this unusual for his body of work? Curator: Well, he wasn't necessarily a known "animalier," like, say, a Rosa Bonheur painting grand scenes of herds of cattle. Hirt was more of a jack-of-all-trades. Think of him as less concerned with "high art," more driven by a deep curiosity and an empathetic gaze, capturing fleeting moments of life as he found them, cows included. Did he feel seen when drawing, perhaps? Editor: That’s a lovely idea! The idea that Hirt connects with the cow and perhaps also is feeling seen in drawing this creature makes it so much more relatable and powerful. Thanks for this perspective! Curator: Exactly. Next time you're feeling low, try sketching something unassuming—a teacup, a tree, or yes, even a cow. The simple act of *seeing* and translating that vision can be surprisingly restorative, trust me!