Herder en herderin Possibly 1776

Francesco Bartolozzi made this engraving entitled ‘Herder en herderin’ in 1776. It encapsulates the burgeoning Romantic movement in Europe. The print presents an idealised vision of rural life. We see a shepherd and shepherdess in a harmonious landscape. This constructed image of pastoral simplicity emerged in the 18th century, as a kind of nostalgic contrast to increasingly industrialised urban centres. The figure of the shepherd became an allegory for the natural goodness of humanity. Bartolozzi's image invites us to consider the social and cultural context in which such art was created and consumed. The print was published in London, indicating a market for such imagery amongst the urban elite. Through meticulous research into period publications, we can understand the values and aspirations of the audience who sought solace in this manufactured vision of the countryside. The historian’s role is to uncover these layers of meaning, appreciating art as a reflection of its time.