Herd Crossing the Brook

Nicolaes Pietersz Berchem

Associated Names
Nicolaes Pietersz Berchem

Artist, Dutch, 1620 - 1683

The image shows a pastoral scene with animals and people crossing a shallow body of water. In the foreground, sheep and cattle are wading through the water with their reflections visible. A woman stands with her back to the viewer holding a child. Further back, more cattle are visible, one being ridden by a man with a wide-brimmed hat and staff. In the background, there are towering cliffs and rock formations. The artwork is done with detailed etching lines creating texture, particularly in the animals' fur and woman's clothing. The color palette is monochromatic, using different shades of black and white that emphasize the lines and shading techniques.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Accession Number

    1972.28.6

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 9, State iii/vi


Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

1984

  • Graphic Survey Show, National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C., February 1984.

Bibliography

1949

  • Hollstein, F.W.H. et al. German engravings, etchings and woodcuts ca. 1400-1700. 8 vols. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberger, 1954-1868. Dutch and Flemish etchings, engravings and woodcuts, ca. 1450-1700. Vols. I-XV, XVIII, XIX. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberge

Wikidata ID

Q65575801

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