Paulus Potter – Cattle and Sheep in a Stormy Landscape Part 5 National Gallery UK

The composition presents a pastoral scene dominated by a dramatic atmospheric event. A group of livestock occupies the foreground and middle ground, set against a turbulent sky that commands much of the visual space. The artist has chosen a high vantage point, allowing for an expansive view of the landscape and emphasizing the scale of the impending storm.
Here we see several animals: a prominent brown cow stands alertly in the left foreground, its posture suggesting apprehension or readiness to flee. A large black cow lies recumbent near the center, seemingly resigned to the approaching weather. Further right, another brown cow grazes peacefully alongside a small flock of sheep, sheltered somewhat by a cluster of trees. The placement of these animals creates a visual hierarchy; the standing cow draws immediate attention, while the reclining one conveys a sense of vulnerability and the grazing group embodies a quiet acceptance.
The landscape itself is rendered with meticulous detail. A grassy knoll forms the primary plane for the animals, its surface dotted with wildflowers and vegetation. The trees on the right edge are painted with loose brushstrokes, suggesting movement in the wind. Beyond this immediate foreground, the terrain fades into indistinct shadows, contributing to a sense of depth and vastness.
The sky is the most striking element. Dark, swirling clouds fill nearly two-thirds of the canvas, punctuated by patches of pale blue that offer a fleeting glimpse of light. The artist’s use of chiaroscuro – the contrast between light and dark – heightens the drama and creates an almost palpable sense of foreboding. The storm isnt depicted as destructive or violent; rather, it is presented as a powerful natural force to which these creatures are subject.
Subtexts within this work seem to explore themes of resilience, vulnerability, and humanity’s relationship with nature. The animals’ varied responses to the approaching storm can be interpreted as metaphors for different approaches to adversity – defiance, resignation, or quiet endurance. The painting evokes a sense of melancholy and contemplation, prompting reflection on the fragility of existence within a larger, often unpredictable world. The careful observation of animal anatomy and behavior suggests an appreciation for the natural order, while the dramatic sky hints at forces beyond human control.