Liggende geit, naar links Possibly 1810 - 1817

This drawing of a resting goat was made in 1810 by Jean Bernard, using graphite on paper. The texture of the goat's fur is evoked through layered strokes of graphite, capturing the soft and dense coat in a way that paint rarely could. This work is an etching, a printmaking technique that uses acid to cut into a metal plate. The plate is inked, and then paper is pressed onto it, transferring the image. The physical act of etching demands patience and precision. Bernard's expertise is evident in the fine lines and tonal variations that bring the goat to life. Consider the social context, this work reflects an increasing interest in rural life, and the economic activities and social structures of farming communities, moving away from more traditional portraiture of the aristocracy. It’s a subtle elevation of the everyday. Ultimately, this work challenges the traditional hierarchy of artistic subjects, suggesting that beauty and value can be found in the ordinary.