The Sleeping Shepherd; Early Morning

The Sleeping Shepherd; Early Morning

Samuel Palmer

1857

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From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This etching on chine collé depicts a serene scene of a shepherd sleeping in a field, surrounded by sheep. The shepherd lies on his back, with his head resting on a bundle of hay, while a few sheep graze peacefully nearby. In the background, a hill rises gently, with a few trees scattered about. The etching is rendered in delicate lines and subtle shading, capturing the softness of the morning light. The overall mood is one of tranquility and stillness, inviting the viewer to step into the peaceful world of the sleeping shepherd. To learn more about the artist behind this work, explore the art of Samuel Palmer.

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