Cows in a Wood 

Editor: This is "Cows in a Wood" by Thomas Rowlandson. The sketch is simple, almost sparse, but the cows have such presence. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I am struck by the artist's handling of line and light. Note how the delicate hatching defines form and suggests volume, particularly in the rendering of the cows' bodies. It's about formal relationships, not pastoral sentimentality. Editor: It’s fascinating how the lines create shapes and shadows without feeling heavy. I hadn’t noticed the relationship between the lines and the form. Curator: Indeed. Form dictates content, wouldn't you agree? Editor: I see your point! Thanks for making me consider the line work more deeply.