Landschap met bomen rond een schuur 1610 - 1653

Simon de Vlieger made this drawing of trees around a barn using black chalk and gray wash. This landscape presents an idealized vision of the Dutch countryside, yet it also hints at the social realities of its time. The image depicts an ordinary scene, but it's also a carefully constructed representation of the Dutch Golden Age. De Vlieger made this artwork in a context in which the Netherlands experienced significant economic growth, driven by trade and colonization. The landscape became a symbol of national pride and identity. The Dutch Reformed Church played a significant role, shaping moral values and social norms, and it can be argued this drawing is a celebration of God's creation. By studying archival records, such as estate inventories and tax records, we can explore the relationship between land ownership, artistic patronage, and the social hierarchies of the time. This allows us to consider the power of art to both reflect and shape our understanding of history.