June 1772

Hendrik Meijer made this watercolor titled 'June', sometime in the late 18th century. Meijer lived and worked during a period of significant social and economic change in the Netherlands, as traditional rural ways of life were steadily being challenged. Here, the pastoral scene offers an intimate glimpse into 18th-century rural life. We see shepherds tending to their flock, with figures resting, one appearing idle, amidst humble dwellings. The clothing and activities suggest a life close to the land, but also hint at the socio-economic hierarchies of the time. It’s worth noting the quietness and lack of idealization in Meijer's depiction. Instead of romanticizing rural life, he presents a more grounded view of the day-to-day existence of these figures. This challenges traditional representations of pastoral life, inviting us to consider the realities and labor involved. It makes you wonder about their stories, their connection to the land, and their place in a changing world.