Knielend kalf 1632 - 1678

"Knielend kalf" (Kneeling Calf) is a drawing by Dutch Golden Age artist Karel du Jardin, dating from 1632 to 1678. This detailed sketch, housed at the Rijksmuseum, showcases du Jardin's mastery of animal anatomy and his ability to capture the essence of a humble subject. The calf's pose, with its front legs bent as if in a kneeling position, adds a sense of life and dynamism to the composition. Du Jardin's use of subtle shading and lines brings out the texture of the animal's fur and the surrounding landscape. This study is a testament to the artist's keen observation and skill in drawing.