1835 Hand-Colored Lithograph: The Hurricane - Farmer Battling the Storm

About this sheet

Description of the Print

This print, titled "De Orkaan" (The Hurricane), depicts a dramatic scene of a farmer struggling to control his animals amidst a violent storm. The central figure is a man, likely a shepherd or farmer, wielding a stick as he tries to herd his terrified livestock, including cows, sheep, and a horse, against the onslaught of the hurricane. The animals appear frantic, with their eyes wide in fear, as they are buffeted by the wind. A dog is also seen in the scene, barking and attempting to assist in rounding up the animals. The landscape around them is chaotic, with trees bent by the wind and debris scattered on the ground, illustrating the ferocity of the storm.

Artist:
- E.J. Verboeckhoven: The artist responsible for the original artwork. Verboeckhoven was a prominent Belgian painter and sculptor, well-known for his detailed and dynamic depictions of animals, often set in dramatic landscapes.

Publisher:
- Soetens & Fils: The publisher of this print, known for producing and distributing high-quality lithographs during the 19th century.

Lithographer:
- Lith. van H. Schaefer: The lithographer who executed the print, translating Verboeckhoven's dynamic scene into a lithograph. Schaefer was known for his ability to capture the intensity and motion of scenes like this one, making them highly engaging for the viewer.

Date of Publication:
- 1835: The print was produced in the year 1835, a time when lithography was widely used to produce detailed and accessible prints for a broad audience.

What Makes This Print Interesting:
This print is particularly striking due to its intense depiction of a natural disaster and the human struggle against it. The dynamic composition, with animals in motion and the farmer's desperate efforts to maintain control, creates a powerful narrative of resilience and survival. Verboeckhoven’s expertise in portraying animals is evident in the detailed and expressive depiction of the livestock, making the scene both realistic and emotionally compelling. The tumultuous weather adds to the drama, making this print a vivid representation of human and animal life facing the forces of nature.

Condition:
The print is in fair to good condition, with some age-related wear visible. There are slight spots of discoloration, particularly around the margins, and some fading in the colors. However, the central image remains clear and vibrant, with the details of the animals and the storm well-preserved. The paper is intact, with no major tears or creases, ensuring that the scene retains its dramatic impact.