WOMAN HARVESTING POTATOES
This picture presents an elaborate study of concentration and absorbance in their work, painted by Jules Breton, circa1827-1906. The quality of silence enveloping the painting is typical of Jules Breton’s peasant life. One of my first paintings, I enjoyed my effort in trying to capture its likeness but adding in extra potatoes and hills to my liking.
by JULES BRETON 1827-1906
Known as one of the first “peasant painters”, Breton created beautiful scenes of rural French life. He painted peasant women and men performing their daily activities. Reward and official decorations were heaped upon him, his paintings were purchased not only by the Emperor but also by collectors in America, Britain & Ireland. However, Breton’s work became eclipsed by the avant-garde movements of the 20th Century and he was eventually forgotten.