Staande stier, naar rechts 1775 - 1833

This drawing of a bull, facing right, was made by Jean Bernard in the late 18th or early 19th century using graphite, with a bit of brown wash. It's fascinating how Bernard captures the weight and mass of the animal with such simple means. Look at the way he uses subtle shading to suggest the rounded form of the bull's body, and the texture of its coat. You can almost feel the animal's presence. Bernard was a printmaker and drawing instructor, and his work reflects a keen interest in the natural world. In those times, cattle were central to the rural economy. A study like this would have been critical to understanding the animal's anatomy, its potential for labor, and its value as a commodity. Note the rope strung through the bull's nose, a testament to the animal's subjugation. This drawing reflects a world where even art was intertwined with labor and capital. By focusing on the materials and the making of the artwork, we gain insight into the relationship between humans, animals, and the land.