Cottages and a Hay Barn on the Diemerdijk with a Flock of Sheep

Cottages and a Hay Barn on the Diemerdijk with a Flock of Sheep is a masterful print created by Rembrandt (Rembrandt van Rijn) in 1652. Executed using the complementary techniques of etching and drypoint, this particular impression represents the second of its two known states. Rembrandt, celebrated for his innovative approach to the graphic arts during the Dutch Golden Age, utilized these methods to achieve subtle tonal variations and deep textural effects that mimic the appearance of atmosphere and distance.

The subject captures a recognizable and humble rural scene near Amsterdam: cottages and a prominent hay barn situated along the Diemerdijk dike, a crucial waterway and defensive structure connecting the city to the Zuiderzee. The composition emphasizes the rustic tranquility of the Dutch countryside, with a small flock of sheep grazing near the agricultural buildings. Rembrandt’s printmaking frequently features such intimate landscapes, moving away from idealized views to highlight the natural dignity of ordinary working life and the expansive, flat horizon of the Netherlands. The depiction of barns and the specific locale establishes this work as a significant example of mid-17th century Dutch landscape prints.

Dating from the peak of the artist's printmaking career, this piece remains an important study of light manipulation in graphic media. The original impression is preserved in the extensive collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Because of its historical significance, high-resolution prints of Cottages and a Hay Barn on the Diemerdijk with a Flock of Sheep are frequently available within the public domain, ensuring global accessibility to the detailed artistry of this Dutch master.