Standing Sheep and Two Lambs 1685

"Standing Sheep and Two Lambs," a 1685 etching by Jan van der Meer the Younger, showcases the artist's mastery of detail and realism. The print, housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, depicts a peaceful pastoral scene, with sheep and lambs resting in a clearing under a shaded tree. The artist's skilled use of line and shadow brings the animals and the landscape to life, creating a serene and timeless image. The etching is a fine example of the Dutch Golden Age's focus on naturalism and the everyday world.