Shepherd with Cow and Goats in a Rustic Farmyard – Engraving by Karl Rölling, 1955

Karl Rölling (1904–1981)
“The Shepherd” – Engraving dated 1955

This appealing mid 20th century engraving shows a shepherd standing with his animals, sounding a horn while a gentle cow and two curious goats gather around him. The animals are rendered with warmth and character, particularly the large placid cow whose expressive eyes and calm presence anchor the composition. The goats stand alert nearby, adding a lively contrast to the quiet dignity of the cow.

The setting appears to be a rustic farmyard or stable entrance, suggested by the wooden structure and the intimate grouping of the animals around the shepherd. The act of blowing the horn evokes traditional pastoral life, recalling the long history of herdsmen using horns to signal across valleys or to call their animals together. Rölling’s engraving style combines confident line work with soft tonal shading, creating a scene that feels

Karl Rölling (1904–1981) was a German graphic artist known primarily for his engravings, etchings, and lithographs. His work often reflects an interest in rural life, animals, and imaginative or symbolic subjects rendered in a strong graphic style. Like many twentieth century printmakers, he produced signed and numbered editions, making his works accessible to a broad audience of collectors. His prints frequently feature animals or expressive figurative scenes rendered with bold line and a slightly whimsical character.

Title, given in English lower left: “The Shepherd”  with date 1955 – Limited Edition 45/150

Initialed in the plate and signed in pencil lower right.