Spring 1857

Charles François Daubigny created this etching called 'Spring,' and it invites us into the rural French landscape of the 19th century. Daubigny, a significant figure in the Barbizon School, sought to capture the transient effects of light and atmosphere, focusing on the simplicity of nature. The scene features a woman riding a donkey through a field, which was a common sight that reflected the rural life and labor of women in agricultural settings. During this period, representations of women in art were often idealized or domestic. Daubigny offers a glimpse into the daily lives of working women, who were often excluded from mainstream artistic narratives. This etching presents us with the emotional and personal dimensions of life intertwined with nature and labor. The artwork serves as a reminder of the often-overlooked stories of women, and the importance of recognizing their presence and contributions in both art and society.