Entering the Forest 1855

Gustave Courbet’s "Entering the Forest," whose date is unknown, is a 96.2 by 129.5cm oil painting that plunges us into a dense woodland scene dominated by deep browns and greens. The composition is almost entirely consumed by the rugged texture of the trees and foliage, which creates a palpable sense of enclosure and intimacy. Courbet uses a complex interplay of light and shadow to suggest depth and volume. The thick application of paint emphasizes the physical presence of the forest. This materiality invites us to consider how Courbet's style reflects a broader move towards realism in the 19th century, challenging the idealized landscapes of previous eras. The almost overwhelming density of the forest interior can be interpreted through post-structuralist lenses, revealing how Courbet destabilizes traditional notions of landscape as picturesque or sublime. The focus on materiality and form encourages us to engage with the painting's surface and consider how the artist uses texture and depth to create a sense of immersion.