Landschap met grazende schapen 1848 - 1888

Anton Mauve made this landscape with grazing sheep with pencil on paper. Mauve was part of the Hague School, which sought to capture the naturalism of rural life. This sketch gives us a glimpse into the agrarian existence of the Netherlands, a world where the rhythms of nature dictated daily life. In this work, Mauve moves away from romantic depictions of pastoral life by presenting an honest portrayal of rural labor. The sheep, rendered with simple lines, appear humble and ordinary as they graze quietly. The focus here is on their everyday existence, devoid of sentimental embellishments. Mauve's approach reflects a broader shift towards realism in art, one that acknowledged the dignity and value of ordinary life. The drawing embodies a quiet beauty and an understated respect for the simplicity of nature, echoing the values of the working class during this period.