The artwork titled “Ploughman with Woman Planting Potatoes” was painted by Vincent van Gogh in 1884 while he was in Nuenen, Netherlands. This oil on canvas painting, which measures 70.5 by 170 cm, belongs to the Realism art movement and is categorized as genre painting. The artwork is currently housed at the Von der Heydt Museum in Wuppertal, Germany.
The artwork depicts a rural scene, showcasing a man ploughing a field with the help of an ox while a woman is engaged in the meticulous task of planting potatoes. The setting is characterized by a vast, open landscape under a cloudy sky, suggesting the expansiveness and labor-intensive nature of agricultural life. The figures are depicted in earthy tones, emphasizing the authenticity and humble reality of their environment and occupation. The horizon in the background subtly transitions from green fields to an orange glow, adding depth and contrast to the composition. The overall depiction captures a moment of shared effort and simple yet essential work, reflecting van Gogh’s profound appreciation for the dignity and perseverance inherent in rural labor.
