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White Cow by Willem Maris

Willem Maris · 1895-01-01

Willem Maris's "White Cow," painted in 1898, is a tranquil oil painting that captures a serene pastoral scene. It is housed at the Rijksmuseum.

Maris, a painter of the Hague School, was renowned for his depictions of rural life and farm animals. He paid particular attention to the effects of light, as seen in the soft rendering of the cow's coat and the shimmering water.

This work exemplifies Maris's focus on capturing the quiet beauty of the Dutch countryside at the end of the 19th century. The painting, with its placid cow and lush environment, reflects a moment of stillness in nature.

The painting's presence in the Rijksmuseum ensures its preservation, allowing us to appreciate Maris's skill in portraying everyday rural life. What details in the painting surprise you?

Details

Willem Maris, a Hague School painter, specialized in these farm animals.
Willem Maris, a Hague School painter, specialized in these farm animals.
He was known for capturing the light on his subjects.
He was known for capturing the light on his subjects.
The varied greens and textures of the grass suggest a fertile, natural environment.
The varied greens and textures of the grass suggest a fertile, natural environment.
Transcript

A Dutch landscape, 1898. Quiet, everyday life. Willem Maris, a Hague School painter, specialized in these farm animals. He was known for capturing the light on his subjects. See how the water lilies float on the reflective surface? This painting is now a serene witness to a time gone by.