Liggende koe, van voren 1775 - 1833

This pencil drawing, "Liggende koe, van voren," (Lying cow, from the front) by Dutch artist Jean Bernard, depicts a cow resting in a field. The simple yet detailed depiction of the animal, with its soft shading and subtle textures, showcases Bernard's skill in capturing realistic animal forms. This work is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection and is a notable example of Dutch animal studies from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The piece provides viewers with a glimpse into the everyday life of farm animals through Bernard's keen eye for detail and his masterful use of graphite.