William Henry Barnard (England, 1767 - 1818, Stowe, England)
Winter, 1802
Mezzotint and etching hand colored on wove paper, 55.2 x 69.2 cm (21 3/4 x 27 1/4 in.)
This is a pastoral scene of sheep in a barn. On our left is an open gated door and window. There is a light-skinned person wearing heavy boots, a large dark coat and a brimmed hat, leaning in a relaxed stance on the upper slat of the gate. They are looking into the barn. Behind this figure is a house and trees covered in a thick layer of snow enveloped in a winter sky. There is a bright light pouring through the door and window illuminating the barn’s interior. In the center are four sheep, two standing and two lying on straw that covers the floor. The two sheep lying down have tight curved horns. One has a dark face and a large bell suspended from its neck. There is a water trough on the lower left in shadow. The ceiling has a distinct rough texture. There is a calligraphic inscription on the lower margin.
Short Gallery
Commentary
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