Going to work c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have Jean-François Millet's print, "Going to Work." It depicts a man and woman walking through a field, appearing weary. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Millet often portrayed rural life, but it's crucial to view his work within the context of 19th-century France. How did industrialization and urbanization impact the perception of rural communities? Editor: It sounds like he's responding to the romanticized view of country life. Curator: Precisely! Millet’s focus on the laborers can be seen as an assertion of their dignity and worth. What does their posture, their very stance, suggest about their social standing and agency? Editor: It feels like Millet's trying to give them some power back. Curator: Absolutely. He challenges the established academic hierarchy by elevating everyday people to the forefront, questioning who gets to be seen and valued in art and society. Editor: I never thought of it that way, that’s insightful. Curator: Understanding these social dynamics helps us move beyond just aesthetic appreciation to actively engage with the work’s deeper political and social implications.