The artwork, “Study for The Harvest at Montfoucault,” created by Camille Pissarro in 1879, is a pastel on paper that exemplifies the Impressionist movement. Its dimensions are 21.59 x 26 cm, and it currently resides in a private collection. The piece serves as a preparatory sketch and study, capturing the essence of an agricultural scene.
The artwork presents a rural landscape characterized by its loose, vibrant strokes—a signature of Impressionist technique. The scene depicts stacks of hay or grain in the forefront, with lush green trees framing the composition in the background. The application of pastel creates a soft texture, while the colors reflect the natural hues one expects in a countryside setting. Despite being a study, Pissarro’s skill in capturing the immediacy of the light and atmosphere is palpable, providing a glimpse into the artist’s process and the preparatory stages leading to a final painting. The sense of tranquility and the everyday simplicity of farm life are central to this artwork.