Koe, van achteren en van opzij gezien 1854 - 1868

This is "Koe, van achteren en van opzij gezien" or "Cow, Seen from the Back and from the Side" by Johannes Tavenraat, a pencil drawing on paper. In this study, Tavenraat presents us with two different perspectives of a cow's head. Notice the stark contrast in viewpoints; one is a profile, capturing the gentle curve of the skull, while the other is from the rear, emphasizing symmetry and the animal's robust neck. The artist's use of line is particularly striking. Delicate, almost hesitant strokes define the contours, lending a sense of softness. These lines don't merely outline; they suggest form and volume, giving the drawing a three-dimensional quality, despite its simplicity. Tavenraat’s choice of subject aligns with a broader artistic interest in rural life. His work invites a closer look at the structures that inform our perception and understanding of the natural world.