The artwork “Peasant” is an oil on canvas portrait created by Paul Cézanne in 1891. It is an example of Post-Impressionism, a movement that emerged as a reaction against Impressionists’ concern for the naturalistic depiction of light and color. “Peasant” belongs to the genre of portraits and, as of the last known update, is part of a private collection.
In this artwork, Paul Cézanne depicts a male figure, likely a laborer or peasant. The subject is positioned in front of a muted background, with a focus on the individual’s expression and physical features. Cézanne’s brushwork is evident in the textured application of paint, particularly on the subject’s clothing and hair. The figure’s face is rendered with a contemplative and stern expression, captured with a blend of earthy and subdued tones. There is a notable lack of fine detail in the man’s facial features, in keeping with Cézanne’s characteristic style that often emphasized the form and structure of the subject over precise realism. The painting offers a glimpse into the life of a working-class individual, portrayed without idealization, yet with a sense of underlying dignity and a powerful presence.
