“Grazing with trees”: a visual journey through silvopastoralism in European art

Abstract This article explores the representation of silvopastoral systems in European art from the 16th to the nineteenth century, with a specific focus on ruminant livestock grazing in wooded environments. Drawing from a wide interdisciplinary body of literature in agroforestry, environmental history and art history, this study adopts a scoping review approach combined with visual analysis of selected artworks. While not a systematic review, it synthesizes existing scientific knowledge on silvopastoralism (defined as the integration of trees, forage, and livestock) and applies this lens to historical paintings. By analyzing key botanical, forestry, zootechnical and land use elements in selected works, the research highlights the relationship between humans, animals, and natural ecosystems as captured through visual art. Particular attention is given to silvopastoral elements such as grazing patterns, tree cover, and animal breeds. Methodologically, the paper integrates knowledge from plant and animal sciences, ecology, and livestock management to assess how these elements are portrayed. The study indicates how artistic depictions provide valuable insights into historical land-use practices, animal husbandry, tree species, and rural socio-ecological dynamics that shape the European agroforestry heritage.