Pleasures of Occupation 1610 - 1684

"Pleasures of Occupation" is an etching by Cornelis Bloemaert, a Dutch artist from the 17th century. The artwork depicts a sleeping young man, possibly a shepherd, lying under a tree with a shepherd’s crook beside him. A figure with a spear stands above him, seemingly observing the scene. This artwork is a small etching, showcasing Bloemaert's mastery of detail and realism in a miniature format. The image reflects a common theme in art of the period, the exploration of rural life and its inherent beauty. The etching is a testament to the delicate precision and skill of 17th-century printmaking, capturing both the tranquility and the subtle drama of the scene.