Artwork
Cattle
Cattle is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist Thomas Rowlandson. It dates from 1792 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1792, *Cattle* is a graphite drawing on wove paper by English artist Thomas Rowlandson. Executed during the Georgian period, the work exemplifies Rowlandson’s range beyond his well‑known caricatures, presenting a quiet study of livestock rather than overt political commentary.
Subject & Meaning
The composition depicts a small herd of cattle set within a pastoral landscape, emphasizing the ordinary rhythms of rural life. By focusing on a commonplace agricultural scene, Rowlandson offers a glimpse of everyday British countryside, contrasting with the more satirical subjects that dominate much of his oeuvre.
Technique & Style
Rowland's use of graphite allows for delicate tonal variations, rendering the animals’ forms with fine line work and subtle shading. The choice of wove paper provides a smooth surface that supports precise detailing, while the overall handling reflects the artist’s skill in balancing realism with a light, observational touch.
History & Provenance
Although primarily celebrated for his political prints, Rowlandson produced a variety of drawings that documented daily life in late‑18th‑century England. *Cattle* has been retained within collections that focus on British drawing, illustrating the breadth of his practice and the enduring interest in his less satirical works.
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas Rowlandson (; 13 July 1757 – 21 April 1827) was an English artist and caricaturist of the Georgian Era, noted for his political satire and social observation.
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