“Cowshed,” created in 1901 by the artist Paula Modersohn-Becker, is an exemplary piece of Expressionist animal painting. Executed using tempera on paper, the artwork measures 29.5 by 39.5 centimeters. This piece belongs to the Expressionism art movement, showcasing Modersohn-Becker’s unique style and her profound sensitivity towards rural and pastoral scenes.
The artwork depicts a somewhat dimly lit interior of a cowshed, featuring two cows penned in wooden stalls. The composition emphasizes the robust forms of the cattle, simplified and rendered with bold, earthy tones. The brushstrokes are expressive, capturing the texture of the cowhide and the rough wooden structure of the shed. The muted color palette, dominated by browns and greens, invokes the tranquil yet somber atmosphere of the rural setting. The perspective is at eye-level with the animals, providing a close, almost intimate view into their daily environment. The overall composition and rendering reflect Modersohn-Becker’s mastery in conveying the emotional depth and raw beauty of rural life through the lens of Expressionist techniques.
