Potter, Paulus – Bull Hermitage ~ part 10

The drawing presents a large bull as its central figure, dominating the composition with its imposing size and presence. The animal is positioned in profile, facing left, allowing for a detailed depiction of its musculature and form. A dense network of cross-hatching defines the texture of its coat, creating an impression of weight and solidity. The artist has rendered the bull’s horns with careful attention to their curve and thickness, emphasizing their power.
Behind the bull, a rudimentary structure – likely a barn or stable – is sketched, partially obscured by foliage. This element introduces a sense of domesticity and suggests the animals role within an agricultural setting. The date 1690 is inscribed on this building, providing a temporal anchor for the scene.
In the background, a smaller cow rests in a field that slopes gently towards a body of water – possibly a lake or sea – indicated by a faint horizon line. A single bird flies across this distant view, adding a touch of movement and scale to the landscape. The ground is rendered with a pattern of short, parallel lines, suggesting uneven terrain and contributing to the overall sense of depth.
The drawing’s monochrome palette lends it a starkness that focuses attention on the bulls physicality. The meticulous detailing in the rendering of the animal contrasts with the more loosely sketched background elements, further emphasizing its importance within the composition.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of strength and labor. The bull, traditionally associated with virility and agricultural productivity, is presented as a symbol of raw power and resilience. The presence of the barn suggests both containment and utility – the animal’s role in providing sustenance for human needs. The inclusion of the smaller cow hints at reproduction and continuation, reinforcing the cyclical nature of rural life. The overall impression is one of quiet observation, capturing a moment within a working landscape and hinting at the enduring relationship between humans and animals.