The artwork, titled “Peasant, Chopping,” is a creation by Vincent van Gogh, dated 1885, and originates from Nuenen, Netherlands. Rendered in chalk on paper, this piece belongs to the Realism art movement and falls under the genre of sketch and study. Presently, it resides in the Kröller-Müller Museum in Otterlo, Netherlands.
In “Peasant, Chopping,” van Gogh captures the robust figure of a peasant at work, emphasizing the physicality and labor-intensive nature of rural life. The groundwork of chalk on paper permits intricate detailing, which is evident in the textured strokes depicting the peasant’s clothes and the surrounding environment. The background features rural architecture with a solitary tree, further grounding the scene in a typical agrarian setting. Van Gogh’s realistic portrayal reflects his empathy towards the working class and his meticulous study of human exertion.