Resting Cows

Art Historical Context

Nicolaes Pietersz Berchem’s “Resting Cows” captures a quiet pastoral moment through the delicate medium of etching. Created as a counterproof—an impression pulled from a freshly printed etching to produce a reversed image—this work highlights the artist’s skill rendering animals and landscapes with, expressive lines. Berchem, a prominent figure in 17th-century Dutch art, frequently depicted livestock in serene outdoor settings, reflecting the period’s fascination with the natural world. The choice of etching allowed for intricate detail and tonal subtlety, making it ideal for intimate scenes like this one. As a print, the work could reach a wider audience than paintings, circulating among collectors and enthusiasts during the Dutch Golden Age. Its presence in the National Gallery of Art’s collection, acquired through the Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund, underscores its value as both an artistic and historical document of early modern printmaking techniques.