Plowing 1864

"Plowing," a 1864 etching by Charles Jacque, captures a serene yet laborious moment in rural life. The print depicts a farmer guiding two horses pulling a plow through a field, their efforts rendered with meticulous detail and a sense of quiet dignity. The composition is simple yet evocative, emphasizing the cyclical nature of agricultural work and the interdependence between man and beast. Jacque's masterful use of light and shadow brings depth to the scene, further highlighting the texture of the soil and the muscular forms of the horses. This artwork, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, is a testament to Jacque's keen observation of nature and his ability to imbue everyday scenes with profound beauty.