Koeienkop 1855

Jan Heppener created this etching, "Koeienkop," or "Cow's Head," in 1855, amidst a period of significant agricultural change in the Netherlands. Heppener’s choice to depict a cow’s head—an intimate view of livestock—resonates with the social context of 19th-century agrarian life. During this time, the Netherlands saw a shift from traditional farming to more intensive methods, impacting the relationship between farmers and their animals. The close-up view invites us to consider the labor and sentience inherent in these animals, challenging the purely economic view of agriculture. The soft lines and nuanced shading emphasize the gentle nature of the animal. Heppener offers us a moment of emotional connection, prompting reflection on our relationships with the animals that sustain us.