Woman Bathing Her Feet in a Brook

Camille Pissarro

Created:
Movement:
1894/95
Neo-Impressionism
key Notes:
Impressionist Landscape, Pastoral Tranquility
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Dimensions:
73 × 92 cm (28 1/2 × 36 in.); Framed: 95 × 113.1 × 12.4 cm (37 3/8 × 44 1/2 × 4 7/8 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Woman Bathing Her Feet in a Brook" is a painting by Camille Pissarro, a prominent figure in the Impressionist movement. The work exemplifies Pissarro's interest in rural life and the natural landscape, common themes in his oeuvre. The painting depicts a solitary female figure engaged in a simple, everyday activity, reflecting the artist's focus on the intimate relationship between humans and nature. Pissarro often employed a loose brushwork technique and a vibrant color palette, which are evident in this piece. The exact date of creation is not definitively known, but it is believed to have been painted during the late 19th century, a period when Pissarro was actively exploring the effects of light and atmosphere in his work. This painting contributes to the broader narrative of Impressionism by highlighting the beauty of ordinary moments and the significance of the rural environment. Pissarro's works are characterized by their emphasis on plein air painting, which was a hallmark of the Impressionist style. The painting is part of a larger body of work that reflects Pissarro's commitment to capturing the essence of modern life in France during his time.

Description of the work:

"Woman Bathing Her Feet in a Brook" by Camille Pissarro depicts a serene outdoor scene characterized by a naturalistic representation of a female figure engaged in the act of bathing her feet in a gently flowing brook. The composition is anchored by the figure, who is positioned slightly off-center, allowing for a dynamic interplay between the subject and the surrounding landscape. Pissarro employs a palette of soft, muted colors, predominantly greens and blues, which evoke a sense of tranquility and harmony with nature. The brushwork is loose and expressive, typical of Pissarro's Impressionist style, capturing the dappled light filtering through the foliage above. The background features a lush, verdant landscape, with trees and foliage rendered in a manner that suggests movement and vitality. The water of the brook is depicted with fluid strokes, reflecting the light and creating a shimmering effect that enhances the overall sense of freshness in the scene. The figure is dressed in a simple, light-colored garment, which contrasts with the darker tones of the surrounding environment, drawing the viewer's attention to her action. The painting exemplifies Pissarro's interest in the interplay between human figures and their natural surroundings, highlighting the intimate relationship between the individual and the landscape.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Woman Bathing Her Feet in a Brook