Jules Bastien-Lepage
When I saw this painting, I thought it could be a good illustration for all Monday struggles. :)
Jules Bastien-Lepage specialized in agricultural scenes, which weren't popular in the official French art scene of the epoch as symbolized by the Salon exhibitions. The Hay Making is a masterpiece of naturalism in painting. The artist has powerfully captured the epic of the French countryside and depicted the peasants in their simplicity and despondency: the young woman sitting in the foreground is haggard with weariness. The composition is quite photographic: the horizon is unusually high, allowing the hay to fill the main part of the canvas. The use of enhanced perspective, a light color scheme, and tight composition around the subjects signal a modern touch within the naturalistic style.
Have a great day everyone!
P.S. The beginning of the week is a great point to start something new; if you'd like to start learning more about different styles in art, be sure to check out our online courses (we have a free course on How To Look At Art in there). :)
P.P.S. One of the most famous painter of the rural life was Jean-François Millet. His paintings are filled with dignified, even holy, atmosphere. Did you know he also came from a peasant family?