Karel Dujardin (1622 Ca./ 1678) - Tre cinghiali vicino a una siepe

Type: Etching, drypoint and/or engraving; Support: ragged-edged laid paper, partial watermark; Condition: excellent black-and-white impression, good preservation with slight traces of foxing and browning; print with narrow margins, signs of wear, glue/application marks on paper, water stain at the top, all as shown in the photo; Shipping: insured by Bartolini/DPD courier, declare any damages at pickup; Provenance: from a private collection;

Karel Dujardin (1622–1678) was one of the most versatile and brilliant artists of the Dutch Golden Age. Although he never fully abandoned his Dutch roots, he is best known as a member of the Bamboccianti, a group of painters (often active in Rome) who depicted scenes of popular and rural daily life with a warm, Mediterranean light.

Here are key points to know about his work:

The “Italianizing” style: After a trip to Italy in his youth, his style changed drastically. He began painting landscapes bathed in golden light, with shepherds, classical ruins, and animals, blending Dutch realism with the idyllic atmosphere of the Roman countryside.

Master of animals: As seen in the work you shared, Dujardin had an extraordinary ability to depict animals (cattle, sheep, donkeys, and pigs) not as mere decorations, but with a dignity and almost “psychological” realism.

Printmaking excellence: In addition to painting, he produced about 50 etchings. His prints are highly sought after by collectors for the clarity of line and the ability to render complex textures (such as animal fur or tree bark) with few precise strokes.

Curiosity: His nickname among the Flemish painters in Rome was “Boccabarile,” due to his alleged fondness for drinking and the jovial life of the Bentvueghels fraternity. Besides landscapes, he also successfully tackled elegant portraits and large historical or religious compositions, showing technical mastery far beyond the usual for his time.