Two Cows under a Tree c. 1670

Adriaen van de Velde created this print, “Two Cows under a Tree,” sometime in the mid-17th century. At this time, the Dutch Republic was a major economic power with a thriving art market, and van de Velde specialized in pastoral scenes, idealizing rural life. But his art also reflects real social and economic conditions. The Dutch Golden Age was built on trade and agriculture, with cattle farming being an important industry. So, these images of livestock weren't just pretty pictures; they were also symbols of national prosperity and pride. Although this looks like a straightforward depiction of cows, consider how Dutch landscape painting helped shape ideas about nature, ownership, and national identity. The detailed rendering invites viewers to appreciate not just the animals but also the Dutch countryside. By researching Dutch agricultural history, period landscape painting, and the art market, we can better understand the complex relationship between art and society in the Golden Age.