The Hammock 1844

"The Hammock" by Gustave Courbet, painted in 1844, depicts a woman relaxing in a hammock in a lush forest setting. Courbet, a key figure in Realism, was known for his focus on everyday life and ordinary people, often portrayed in a natural and unidealized manner. The painting's simple composition, with its emphasis on the woman's relaxed form and the surrounding foliage, exemplifies the Realist movement's rejection of romanticized and idealized imagery. "The Hammock" is a notable example of Courbet's early works, showcasing his skill in capturing the beauty and authenticity of everyday life.