Sketches of Three Subjects c. 1855

"Sketches of Three Subjects" is an etching by the renowned French artist Jean-François Millet, dating back to around 1855. This piece, housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, showcases Millet's signature style of depicting rural life, capturing the simple yet poignant moments of peasant existence. The composition, rendered in a minimalist yet expressive manner, features three figures engaged in everyday tasks, showcasing Millet's keen observation of the human form and their interaction with the natural world. This work exemplifies the artist's commitment to realism and his ability to imbue seemingly ordinary scenes with profound depth and emotional resonance, making it a compelling example of 19th-century French art.