An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Haystacks: AutumnJean-François Millet
French, Gruchy 1814–1875 Barbizon
ca. 1874
33 1/2 x 43 3/8 in. (85.1 x 110.2 cm)
Painting
Oil on canvas
European Paintings
Bequest of Lillian S. Timken, 1959
In "Haystacks: Autumn," Jean-François Millet captures a quiet moment in rural life, where nature and labor intertwine seamlessly. The towering haystacks, bathed in soft autumn light, evoke a sense of abundance and preparation for the colder months.
Sheep graze peacefully in the foreground, their simple presence grounding the scene. The earthy tones of the landscape contrast beautifully with the dramatic sky, suggesting change and the passage of time. The subtle brushwork conveys a warmth and tenderness, inviting viewers to reflect on the rhythms of agricultural life.
Millet’s choice of subject matter—a common harvest scene—celebrates the humble yet vital work of farmers, highlighting the connection between humans and the land. This artwork becomes not just a depiction of labor but a meditation on the cycles of life, prompting us to pause and appreciate the beauty in everyday moments.
About the artist
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