Millet

Jean-François Millet (1814-1875)

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The Diggers France, unknown date Etching Two men are digging in an inhospitable landscape. Their strong shoulders, curved backs and widely planted legs suggest the strenuous nature of their task. Millet often regarded peasant figures as evoking a sense of eternal and timeless toil in an unforgiving world. He un-idealised visions were seen by many … Read more

MILLET TO MANET

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French Prints of the Late 19th Century The 19th century was a period of immense social and artistic foment in France and throughout Europe, and this display, themed to coincide with the exciting loan to the gallery of Manet’s masterpiece Portrait of Madamoiselle Claus, explores the contrasts and conflicts of the period. Using a selection … Read more

Jean-François Millet (1814 – 1875)

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A Milkmaid Barbizon, near Paris, about 1853 Oil on canvas 32.5 x 24 cm A milkmaid, silhouetted against the moon, pauses to rebalance a heavy copper pitcher on her shoulder. Despite her small scale, the figure has a monumentality which conveys a timeless quality.  Millet came from a peasant background in Normandy and his paintings … Read more