Four Cows

The drawing Four Cows by Claude Lorrain (Claude Gellée) is an exquisite naturalistic study rendered primarily in red and black chalks with a subtle gray wash applied over laid paper. This blend of media exemplifies the flexibility and observational focus characteristic of preparatory studies in the seventeenth century. The combination of dry chalk for definition and wash for tonal modulation allows the French artist to achieve both precision and atmosphere in his subject matter. Classified as a drawing from the period 1551 to 1600, this work demonstrates an early attention to the realistic depiction of nature that would become foundational to Lorrain’s celebrated career in landscape painting.

Lorrain, though often associated with idealized, poetic landscapes derived from classical history, frequently produced detailed observational sketches of the natural world. Four Cows functions as a vital example of this preparatory work, focusing entirely on the bovine figures—likely intended as reference material for inclusion in a grander pastoral or mythological scene. The artist’s skillful handling of the chalk captures the varied textures of the animals and suggests their weight and posture with remarkable accuracy. These dedicated animal studies are crucial to understanding Lorrain’s commitment to grounding his expansive, often theatrical, landscapes in observable reality.

This carefully preserved piece is part of the distinguished collection of the National Gallery of Art. While the drawing represents the rich French tradition of draftsmanship from the time period 1551 to 1600, its artistic value transcends its immediate context. As interest in the preparatory methods of masters like Lorrain grows, the piece’s significance for art historians is profound. The accessibility of high-quality digital assets ensures that, similar to other major museum holdings, the imagery is readily available for study, allowing curators and scholars access for research and facilitating the creation of quality prints.