Artwork

Goat Herd on a Hill

Goat Herd on a Hill, by Allart van Everdingen, ink, 1650
Goat Herd on a Hill, by Allart van Everdingen, ink, 1650

Goat Herd on a Hill is an ink print by the Baroque artist Allart van Everdingen. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Goat Herd on a Hill is an etching by Allart van Everdingen, created circa 1650, exemplifying the Dutch Golden Age's focus on landscape and rural themes.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene hillside scene with a goat, its herder partially concealed, small houses, a distant tower, and a soft, misty sky, evoking a sense of peaceful rural life.

Technique & Style

Characterized by fine, detailed lines, the etching showcases Everdingen's meticulous technique, with textured renderings of foliage and landscape elements. The possible signature 'AVE' appears at the bottom.

History & Provenance

Created by Allart van Everdingen (1621-1675), a Dutch painter and printmaker, the etching reflects his contribution to the Golden Age's landscape tradition. Provenance details are not specified.

Context

Part of the broader Dutch Golden Age artistic movement, this work aligns with the period's emphasis on capturing the beauty of everyday landscapes and rural activities.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of 'Goat Herd on a Hill' are not provided, it contributes to Everdingen's recognized body of work in etching and mezzotint, influencing subsequent generations of landscape printmakers.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Allart van Everdingen

Artist

Allart van Everdingen

Allaert van Everdingen (Dutch pronunciation: ; bapt. 18 June 1621 – 8 November 1675 (buried)), was a Dutch Golden Age painter and printmaker in etching and mezzotint.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.