Rembrandt's genius is reflected in the simplicity of this beautiful pastoral scene. In this etching, Rembrandt combined scenery from the countryside around Amsterdam in the foreground, with a mountainous background that existed hundreds of miles from Amsterdam.  To create this beautiful work of art, Rembrandt used both a fine etching needle and drypoint.  The farmhouse, which probably stood in the neighborhood of Diemen, is also featured in one of Rembrandt’s drawings.  Around 1650, the approximate date this copper etching plate was completed, Rembrandt's financial situation grew desperate and he could no longer make his mortgage and tax payments. This landscape etching may reflect Rembrandt's dreams of places far away from the troubles in his life.

"Landscape with a Cow"  B.237  

Etching, with drypoint, ca. 1650   
4-1/16” x 5”  Second and final state  Posthumous Impression, 1998