“Father Melon Lighting his Pipe” is an artwork by Camille Pissarro, executed in pastel on paper, and considered a part of the Realism movement. The artwork measures 46 x 56.5 cm and falls under the genre painting category, portraying scenes from everyday life. The piece is held in a private collection.
In the artwork, a man is depicted outdoors in a bucolic setting. He is standing near a tree, wearing a hat, with his back slightly turned towards the viewer. The figure, known as Father Melon, is in the act of lighting his pipe, a task which he appears absorbed in. His attire suggests that he may be a peasant, as it is simple and functional. The lighting and color palette are subdued, creating a sense of tranquility and intimacy. The surrounding landscape is rendered with loose and vibrant brushstrokes, indicative of Pissarro’s style and the influence of Impressionist approaches, despite the artwork being categorized within Realism. A folding stool or chair lies on the ground near him, implying a moment of rest or perhaps contemplation. The scene captures a slice of rural life, evoking the calm and rhythm of nature.
