Shepherds beside Roman Ruins Nicolaes (Claes Pietersz.) Berchem (1620-1683)

The composition presents a pastoral scene unfolding within the shadow of ancient ruins. Here we observe a group of shepherds and their flocks gathered near what appears to be a pool or stream, set against a backdrop dominated by crumbling Roman architecture integrated into a rocky hillside. The artist has arranged the figures in several distinct groupings, creating layers of narrative depth.
In the foreground, a young woman seated on a donkey is the focal point. She tends to the animals with a gentle gesture, her posture suggesting both authority and tranquility. A small white sheep stands close to her, while a larger ox drinks from the waters edge. Several dogs are present, one attentively watching the shepherds, another playfully interacting with the flock.
To the left of the central group, two additional shepherds stand in conversation, their figures partially obscured by foliage and distance. Their attire suggests a rural existence, marked by simple garments and practical headwear. Further back, along the waters edge, other individuals are visible, contributing to the sense of a bustling pastoral community.
The ruins themselves form an imposing presence. The remnants of arches, columns, and walls rise from the hillside, their weathered surfaces hinting at centuries of decay and abandonment. Dense vegetation clings to these structures, blurring the line between nature and human construction. This juxtaposition creates a visual dialogue between the enduring power of nature and the transience of civilization.
The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, greens, and ochres – which reinforce the sense of naturalism and antiquity. Light filters through the foliage, illuminating certain areas while leaving others in shadow, adding depth and atmosphere to the scene. The artist’s use of chiaroscuro enhances the drama and draws attention to key figures and architectural elements.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of continuity and change. The shepherds represent a timeless way of life, seemingly unaffected by the grandeur that once stood behind them. The ruins serve as a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the inevitable decline of even the most powerful empires. There is an underlying melancholy conveyed through the contrast between the vibrant pastoral scene and the decaying remnants of Roman civilization – a quiet meditation on mortality and the cyclical nature of history.