Koeien bij water in een weiland 1890 - 1930

This is Philip Zilcken’s etching “Cows by Water in a Meadow.” The composition is dominated by horizontal lines, from the water to the sky. It has an intimate scale, which is very common in etching. The tonal range is narrow, primarily in grayscale. Zilcken was instrumental in re-introducing etching as an original art form in the Netherlands. His contribution to the Dutch etching revival can be examined through the interplay between the graphic structure, composition, and the materiality of the print. Zilcken used closely-knit and superimposed lines and strokes to represent the textures of the meadow, and the reflections in the water. The artist destabilizes traditional landscape painting by focusing less on scenic beauty and more on texture. Note how the subtle shifts in tone and texture create a sense of depth, inviting the viewer to engage with the work on both a visual and tactile level. The overall effect is one of quiet observation and a deep appreciation for the materiality and structure of the etching.