Peasants and Cattle Crossing Ford n.d.

"Peasants and Cattle Crossing a Ford" is a red chalk drawing by the Dutch Golden Age artist Nicolaes Berchem. The drawing is a classic example of Berchem’s style, which often featured pastoral scenes with peasant figures, animals, and landscapes. The drawing shows a group of peasants and their cattle crossing a shallow ford, a common sight in the Dutch countryside. The figures are drawn with great detail and realism, and the landscape is rendered in a loose, impressionistic style. This work is a study in light and shadow, the artist's skilled use of red chalk evokes a sense of depth and movement. This drawing is a charming depiction of everyday life in the Dutch countryside, showcasing the artist’s masterful skill in capturing the subtle nuances of light, shadow, and movement.