Scharrelende kippen voor een boerderij 1890 - 1946

Cornelis Vreedenburgh made this pencil drawing, “Scharrelende kippen voor een boerderij”, the Dutch title translating to “Chickens foraging in front of a farmhouse”, at an unknown date. Vreedenburgh, born in Woerden, was deeply rooted in the Dutch landscape tradition. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Netherlands was undergoing significant social and economic changes, including urbanization and industrialization. Despite these shifts, there was a persistent longing for rural life, with artists like Vreedenburgh capturing the serene and simple aspects of the countryside. In this drawing, Vreedenburgh invites us to consider the intricate relationship between humans and nature. His composition, while seemingly straightforward, reflects a deeper cultural narrative about the value of simplicity and the importance of preserving a connection to the land. It serves as a gentle reminder of the tranquil beauty and cultural significance of rural landscapes amidst societal change.