The Vendors of Legumes 

Giovanni Costa painted "The Vendors of Legumes" using oil on canvas, a medium that allowed him to capture the nuances of light and shadow. The oil paints’ smooth texture gives a sense of soft realism, evident in the women's clothing and the woven basket filled with legumes. Costa masterfully uses the play of light to highlight the women's faces, drawing our attention to their expressions and interaction. Notice how the painting's composition and details reflect the social context of the time, offering insights into the lives of working-class women in 19th-century Italy. The painting celebrates the artistry and labor involved in the production and sale of everyday goods. Looking closely at the image allows us to appreciate the amount of work involved in agriculture, food production, and the informal economy. By focusing on materials, making, and context, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artwork and question the traditional boundaries between fine art and craft.