Woman with a Rake

"Woman with a Rake" is a painting by French artist Jean-François Millet, created around 1856–57. The work exemplifies Millet's focus on rural life and the dignity of peasant labor. It depicts a woman engaged in agricultural work, holding a rake, which symbolizes her connection to the land. Millet's use of earthy tones and naturalistic forms reflects his interest in realism and the portrayal of everyday life. The painting is part of Millet's broader oeuvre that emphasizes the struggles and resilience of the working class. The exact provenance of the painting is not well-documented, and its current location is not specified in available sources.

"Woman with a Rake" by Jean-François Millet, created in probably 1856–57, depicts a female figure engaged in agricultural labor. The composition features a woman standing in a field, holding a rake, with her body slightly turned to the side. She is dressed in a simple, modest garment, which reflects the working-class attire of the time. The background consists of a muted landscape, characterized by earthy tones and a soft, atmospheric quality. The use of light and shadow emphasizes the contours of the figure and the rake, creating a sense of depth. Millet's brushwork is expressive, with visible strokes that convey texture in both the woman's clothing and the surrounding environment. The overall tone of the painting is somber yet dignified, highlighting the theme of rural labor and the connection between the figure and the land.