The Reaper c. 1895

Constantin Meunier's bronze sculpture, "The Reaper," depicts a worker in the act of harvesting grain. Created around 1895, the sculpture captures the physical exertion and determination of the laborer, emphasizing the dignity and importance of manual labor. Meunier, a Belgian artist known for his depictions of working-class life, aimed to elevate the everyday struggles of the working class to the level of art. The sculpture's realistic detail and dynamic pose, emphasizing the bend of the reaper's body and the weight of the tool, contribute to the powerful message of the piece. The "Reaper" is a striking example of Meunier's style, which combined elements of Realism and Symbolism. This sculpture, now housed at The Art Institute of Chicago, stands as a tribute to the labor and resilience of working people.