Standing Ox, Two Sheep, and a Goat
1762
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1762
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This print shows a big ox standing on a grassy hill, its head turned toward us. Below, two sheep huddle together near a small stream, and a goat with curved horns stands nearby. The background has simple bushes and trees, all drawn in bold, dark lines. The artist used a mix of black ink and white highlights to make the animals pop against the blue-gray paper. The sheep’s wool is textured with tiny strokes, giving it a fluffy look. Next, check out etching to see how artists like this one create detailed prints.