The artwork titled “Peasant Woman Gleaning,” created by Vincent van Gogh in 1885 in Nuenen, Netherlands, is a compelling piece rendered in chalk on paper. This sketch and study, part of the Realism art movement, forms part of the Charles Clore Collection in London, UK.
In this evocative artwork, Van Gogh captures the essence of rural toil through the depiction of a peasant woman engrossed in the act of gleaning. The subject is portrayed in a bent posture, suggesting a moment of laborious activity as she gathers remnants from the field. The artist employs strong, expressive lines and a monochromatic palette to enhance the realism and emotional gravity of the scene. The woman’s attire, simple and functional, underscores her social status and the harsh realities of agrarian life. Through this composition, Van Gogh presents an authentic and dignified representation of the working class, reflective of his deep empathy for the humble peasantry.
