Liegendes Rind nach rechts, rückansichtig 

This sketch of a reclining cow, seen from the rear, was made with brown ink on paper by Friedrich Wilhelm Hirt. With its soft shading and focus on organic form, it evokes a sense of rural tranquility. But pastoral images like this have a complex history. In 18th and 19th century Europe, as cities grew and industrialized, the countryside became a powerful symbol of purity, simplicity, and traditional values. Artists played a key role in shaping this ideal, often romanticizing rural life while ignoring the harsh realities of agricultural labor and social inequality. Hirt’s sketch can be seen as part of this broader cultural trend. It invites viewers to escape the pressures of modern life and connect with nature. By studying the social and economic context in which it was made, using resources like historical archives, agricultural records, and contemporary literature, we can gain a deeper understanding of its role in shaping attitudes toward the countryside.