Vier geiten 1834 - 1850

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created this print of four goats in the Netherlands sometime in the 19th century. Last was working in a period where the Dutch countryside was being both idealized and transformed, and this piece gives us a glimpse into the era’s complex relationship with the natural world. The goats are rendered with remarkable detail, each with its own distinct character and pose. This work reflects the 19th century's fascination with nature, but it's not just a neutral depiction. It invites us to consider the place of animals within the social and economic structures of the time. Were these animals seen as companions, property, or something in between? There's a quiet intimacy in the way the goats interact, a tenderness that transcends their status as mere livestock. It's a reminder of the intricate connections between humans and animals, and the emotional bonds that shape our understanding of the world.