Figuren op een boslaan en een liggende koe en een kip Possibly 1866 - 1870

This subtle pencil drawing is by Johannes Tavenraat, though the exact date is unknown. Tavenraat, who lived from 1809 to 1881, invites us into a serene landscape populated by figures, a cow, and a chicken. While the scene appears peaceful, it's important to consider the social context of 19th-century Dutch landscape art. During this period, the Netherlands was undergoing significant social and economic changes. Artists often depicted the countryside as an idealized space, in contrast to the rapid industrialization of urban centers. How might Tavenraat's choice to include figures in this landscape—some at rest and others moving along the path—reflect or challenge these societal shifts? Notice how Tavenraat uses delicate lines to create a sense of depth and atmosphere. There is an emotional element to the work, one of quiet contemplation. This invites us to consider our relationship to the natural world.