The artwork titled “In the Fields” is an oil on canvas painting created by Henri Rousseau in 1910. It exemplifies the Naïve Art movement, specifically Primitivism, and falls under the genre painting category. The dimensions of the artwork are 55 by 46 centimeters. Currently, this piece is housed at the Artizon Museum in Tokyo, Japan.
The artwork captures a serene rural scene, characterized by a simplicity that resonates with the Naïve Art movement, which Rousseau is well-known for. In the foreground, two donkeys stand side by side on the grass, with one of them turning its head, as if to gaze at the viewer. Behind the animals, a figure dressed in clothing suggestive of a farmer is seen holding a walking stick and appears to be in mid-stride. The figure’s attire includes a red headscarf, adding a pop of color to the otherwise earthy tones of the landscape.
The background is dominated by tall and slender poplar trees that rise vertically, contrasting with the rounded shape of a large, dense tree to the right. The individual leaves on this larger tree are detailed, creating a textural pattern that draws the eye. The sky above is a clear expanse of blue, hinting at the time of day being perhaps early morning or late afternoon, when the light casts long shadows and emphasizes the tranquility of the countryside setting. Collectively, the elements in the artwork evoke a sense of peaceful solitude and a connection to the natural world, reflective of Rousseau’s style and thematic interests.
