Westerbeek Cornelis Herdsman with sheep Sun Cornelis Westerbeek

The canvas presents a pastoral scene dominated by a flock of sheep grazing on a gently sloping hillside. The foreground is characterized by earthy tones – browns and ochres – suggesting recently disturbed soil or a path worn by livestock. This area transitions into a vibrant green meadow, densely populated with the animals. They are depicted in various poses: some graze peacefully, others appear to be resting, while still others move across the field. Their woolly coats exhibit subtle variations in color, contributing to the overall texture and depth of the scene.
A solitary figure, presumably a shepherd, is visible on the crest of the hill, rendered as a small, indistinct shape against the sky. This placement emphasizes his role as an observer rather than an active participant within the immediate action of the flock. The horizon line is relatively low, allowing for a broad expanse of pale blue sky to occupy the upper portion of the composition.
The light source appears to be from above and slightly to the left, casting soft shadows that define the contours of the landscape and the forms of the sheep. This illumination contributes to a sense of tranquility and warmth. The artist’s brushwork is loose and impressionistic, prioritizing atmosphere over precise detail. Individual blades of grass are not meticulously rendered; instead, they coalesce into areas of color and texture.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of rural life, the painting evokes themes of solitude, labor, and connection to nature. The shepherds distant presence suggests a quiet responsibility and a contemplative relationship with his flock and the land he tends. The abundance of sheep might symbolize prosperity or sustenance, while their collective movement hints at an underlying rhythm and order within the natural world. The subdued color palette and soft lighting contribute to a feeling of peacefulness and timelessness, inviting contemplation on the cyclical nature of rural existence.