Drie koeien en twee herders 1647 - 1674

"Drie koeien en twee herders" (Three Cows and Two Shepherds), a 17th-century etching by Dutch artist Jan van Ossenbeeck, depicts a pastoral scene with three cows resting in a field. The cows are rendered with meticulous detail, their forms emphasized by the use of hatching and cross-hatching, which also creates a sense of depth and volume. Two shepherds stand in the background, their figures less detailed, suggesting a quiet landscape. The composition is balanced and harmonious, emphasizing the tranquility of the scene. This small-scale work exemplifies van Ossenbeeck's mastery of etching, showcasing his ability to capture both the beauty of nature and the simplicity of rural life.