Wild Cattle c. 1790

Thomas Bewick’s “Wild Cattle,” a wood engraving from c. 1790, depicts a detailed and realistic representation of a wild bull. The image showcases Bewick's mastery of this technique, creating a sense of depth and texture through delicate lines and precise shading. The bull stands majestically, its body turned slightly towards the viewer, and its horns are prominent. The surrounding foliage provides a natural backdrop, highlighting the animal’s wild nature. Bewick's prints, known for their meticulous detail and attention to naturalism, greatly influenced the development of wood engraving and popularized the use of this technique in the 19th century.