A Peasant Woman Digging in Front of Her Cottage c. 1885

Vincent van Gogh painted this oil on canvas, "A Peasant Woman Digging in Front of Her Cottage," during his time in Nuenen in the Netherlands. It reflects his deep interest in the lives of rural laborers. Van Gogh saw the peasant class as embodying a profound connection to the earth. Painted in the 1880s, this artwork places a humble subject at center stage, challenging the traditional hierarchy of academic painting, which favored historical or mythological scenes. The thick application of paint and earthy tones emphasize the harshness and simplicity of peasant life. Van Gogh’s choice to depict a woman, likely the head of her household, highlights the important role of women in rural society. To fully understand this artwork, research into 19th-century Dutch rural life would be invaluable. Considering the social and economic conditions of the time helps us appreciate Van Gogh's attempt to elevate the everyday experiences of the working class.