Dirck van den Bergen – Two Calves, a Sheep and a Dun Horse by a Ruin Part 2 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a pastoral scene centered around livestock within a landscape marked by decay and transition. Here we observe two calves, a sheep, and a dun-colored horse grouped near what appears to be the remnants of a stone structure – a ruin partially obscured by foliage. The animals are rendered with a naturalistic attention to detail; their textures, from the rough coat of the horse to the soft wool of the sheep, are convincingly portrayed.
The artist placed the group in the foreground, drawing immediate focus to them. Their postures suggest a quiet contentment or perhaps a momentary pause within their daily routines. The horse grazes with its head lowered, while the calves huddle close, and the sheep rests peacefully nearby. This arrangement evokes a sense of tranquility and rural simplicity.
Behind this central grouping, the landscape unfolds. A dense thicket of trees dominates the middle ground, creating a visual barrier that partially conceals the ruin. Beyond the trees, a distant vista reveals rolling hills under a sky punctuated by billowing clouds. The contrast between the shadowed foreground and the brighter background creates depth and emphasizes the vastness of the natural world.
The inclusion of the ruin introduces an element of melancholy and reflection. It suggests the passage of time and the inevitable decline of human endeavors against the backdrop of nature’s enduring presence. This juxtaposition of life and decay, of pastoral innocence and historical loss, imbues the scene with a subtle complexity. The ruin isnt merely a structural detail; it functions as a symbolic marker, hinting at themes of impermanence and the cyclical nature of existence.
The lighting plays a crucial role in shaping the mood. A soft, diffused light illuminates the animals and landscape, creating a gentle atmosphere that is both inviting and contemplative. The use of chiaroscuro – the interplay of light and shadow – adds depth and volume to the forms, enhancing their realism. Overall, the painting conveys a sense of quiet observation, prompting consideration of humanity’s relationship with nature and the enduring power of time.