A Peasant Woman Digging in Front of Her Cottage

Vincent van Gogh

Created:
Movement:
c. 1885
Realism
key Notes:
Rural labor, Earthy tones
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Dimensions:
31.3 × 42 cm (12 5/16 × 16 1/2 in.); Framed: 52.1 × 62.6 × 10.8 cm (20 1/2 × 24 5/8 × 4 1/4 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"A Peasant Woman Digging in Front of Her Cottage" is a painting by Vincent van Gogh created in 1885. This work reflects van Gogh's early interest in the lives of rural laborers, a theme he explored during his time in the Netherlands. The painting depicts a female figure engaged in agricultural work, symbolizing the dignity and hardship of peasant life. Van Gogh's use of earthy tones and expressive brushwork conveys both the physicality of the labor and the emotional weight of the subject. The composition is characterized by a strong diagonal line created by the woman's posture and the surrounding landscape, emphasizing her connection to the land. This work is part of van Gogh's broader exploration of social realism, influenced by his admiration for the works of artists such as Jean-François Millet. The painting is currently housed in a private collection, reflecting the artist's enduring legacy and the continued interest in his depictions of rural life.

Description of the work:

"A Peasant Woman Digging in Front of Her Cottage" by Vincent van Gogh depicts a solitary female figure engaged in agricultural labor, set against the backdrop of a rustic cottage. The composition is characterized by a dynamic interplay of earthy tones, with rich browns and greens dominating the palette, reflecting the rural landscape. The woman is portrayed in a bent posture, emphasizing her physical engagement with the soil, while her clothing is rendered in muted colors that suggest the simplicity of peasant life. The brushwork is expressive and vigorous, typical of Van Gogh's style, with visible strokes that convey texture and movement. The cottage, partially obscured by foliage, features a thatched roof and is integrated into the natural environment, reinforcing the theme of labor in harmony with nature. The overall atmosphere of the painting evokes a sense of toil and connection to the land, underscored by the use of light and shadow to create depth.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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A Peasant Woman Digging in Front of Her Cottage