“Peasant Woman with a Rake after Millet,” an oil on canvas masterpiece by the renowned artist Vincent van Gogh, created in 1889 in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France, is a quintessential representation of the Post-Impressionism movement. This genre painting, currently housed in a private collection, encapsulates van Gogh’s admiration for the works of Jean-François Millet.
The artwork portrays a peasant woman standing in a field, her posture slightly bent as she handles a rake with both hands. Her attire, a simple dress and bonnet, alongside the rustic setting, exudes the hardships and simplicity of rural life. The brushstrokes are vigorous and textured, characteristic of van Gogh’s style, imbuing the scene with a sense of depth and movement. The background, awash with hues of blue and green, contrasts vividly with the earthier tones of the woman’s clothing and the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious balance. The artwork exemplifies van Gogh’s ability to capture the essence of the human condition, emphasizing the dignity and labor of the rural worker.
