1212698 On the Downs (oil on panel) by Cooper, Thomas Sidney (1803-1902); 45.8x35.2 cm; Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK; (add.info.: The chalk cliffs show that this scene is set on the South Downs, on the Sussex coast. Goats and donkeys were a familiar sight in the Victorian countryside. Donkeys were used to transport loads, and goats\' milk was considered to be particularly good for invalids. Thomas Sidney Cooper was a well known specialist painter of animals. His pictures often show animals resting beneath an open expanse of blue sky. This kind of composition followed the example of 17th century Dutch paintings. These were very popular with British collectors and artists.); 穢 Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums; English, out of copyright.