Nundinae Rusticorum (Rustic Market)

Johannes van Doetechum the Elder and Lucas van Doetechum, after Pieter Bruegel the Elder

National Gallery of Art

This etching shows a detailed landscape scene viewed from an elevated perspective. Tall, narrow trees with detailed foliage are visible over small people engaged in activities such as tilling the land, leading wagons drawn by oxen, or fishing in a small pond. On the left, pointed buildings are partially obscured by the trees. Several of the people appear to be walking up a hill towards these buildings, carrying sacks or baskets. In the distance, rolling hills unfold into a river or large body of water, with banks dotted with trees and fields. Behind the water are more hills and mountains covered with small buildings, trees, and rock formations. The sky above the mountains features soft, billowing clouds. The print is monochromatic, with dark, thin lines on white paper.