About this sheet
Dutch Golden Age Cattle Etchings – After Paulus Potter, Blooteling Set of 8
A rare complete set of eight etched cattle scenes after the celebrated Dutch Golden Age animal painter Paulus Potter (1625–1654), traditionally known as “Het Bullenboekje.” This pastoral series presents powerful yet restrained studies of oxen and cows in open meadow landscapes, reflecting Potter’s lasting influence on seventeenth-century Dutch animal art.
The present group consists of etched copies in reverse, each numbered 1 through 8 in the plate and measuring approximately approx. 4.6 × 6.6 in ( 11.8 × 16.7 cm.) The first plate bears the inscription “P. Potter in. / A. Blooteling ex.”, identifying Abraham Blooteling (1640–1690) as publisher and very likely the etcher responsible for this refined translation. Blooteling, best known for his innovations in mezzotint, was also active as an engraver and publisher of high-quality reproductive prints after leading Dutch masters.
All eight impressions are very fine, printed on paper with a foolscap watermark and retaining narrow margins. The plates are mounted at the left margin, consistent with early album or collector presentation. Hollstein (Potter, vol. XVII, nos. 212–215) records several states and later complete copies of this series; however, the present set bears the address of Abraham Blooteling in a configuration apparently unrecorded by Hollstein or earlier authorities, adding particular scholarly interest.
Visually, the series is calm and monumental, with subtle variations in pose and setting that reward viewing as a complete sequence. Displayed together, the eight plates form a cohesive frieze with strong decorative impact, equally suited to a traditional interior, country house setting, or a more contemporary space seeking understated graphic strength.
Complete seventeenth-century series such as this are increasingly difficult to find intact, and sets with uniform impressions and the Blooteling address are especially scarce. Offered here as a preserved group of eight, this is a compelling opportunity to acquire a coherent Dutch Golden Age pastoral series that is unlikely to be repeated in comparable condition.
The set is priced to reflect a current market opportunity and to encourage timely acquisition of an increasingly difficult-to-source Dutch Golden Age series.
Condition report:
All eight plates in very good condition. Strong, even impressions with clear plate tone. Light age toning and occasional minor surface marks consistent with age. Narrow margins throughout. Mounted at the left margin. No significant losses or restorations observed.
Framing tips:
Best framed as a unified group. Consider eight identical frames with light ivory or parchment mats to emphasize the delicacy of the etched lines. Natural oak, walnut, or ebonized frames work particularly well. Alternatively, arrange the plates in two horizontal rows of four for a balanced wall installation.
