Environs of Fontainebleau: Woodland and Cattle

Auguste-François Bonheur

Created:
Movement:
1884
Realism
key Notes:
Pastoral Landscape, Natural Realism
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Dimensions:
104 1/2 x 157 1/4 in. (265.4 x 399.4 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Environs of Fontainebleau: Woodland and Cattle" is a painting by Auguste-François Bonheur, a French artist known for his depictions of rural landscapes and animals. The exact date of its creation is unknown. Bonheur was influenced by the Barbizon School, which emphasized naturalism and the beauty of the French countryside. The painting reflects his interest in capturing the interplay of light and shadow in natural settings. Bonheur's work often features pastoral scenes, showcasing his skill in rendering animals and their environments. The painting is characterized by its detailed representation of cattle within a wooded landscape, highlighting the harmony between nature and livestock. Bonheur's contributions to 19th-century art include a focus on realism and a dedication to plein air painting. The current location of "Environs of Fontainebleau: Woodland and Cattle" is not documented.

Description of the work:

"Environs of Fontainebleau: Woodland and Cattle" by Auguste-François Bonheur is an oil on canvas painting that depicts a serene woodland landscape. The composition features a dense arrangement of trees, showcasing a variety of greens that convey the lushness of the forest. In the foreground, cattle are portrayed grazing peacefully, rendered with attention to anatomical detail and naturalistic coloration. The play of light and shadow creates depth, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the scene. The overall atmosphere is tranquil, reflecting Bonheur's interest in rural life and nature. The painting exemplifies the artist's skill in capturing the interplay between animals and their environment. The precise date of creation remains unknown.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Environs of Fontainebleau: Woodland and Cattle