The Ornans Paper Mill 1865

"The Ornans Paper Mill" (1865) by Gustave Courbet depicts a realistic scene of a paper mill in Ornans, France. Courbet, a leading figure in Realism, used his art to portray everyday life with unflinching honesty. This artwork is a testament to his commitment to depicting ordinary scenes in a direct and straightforward manner, capturing the working class and their activities. The mill, with its water wheel and machinery, serves as a powerful symbol of industry and labor, highlighting the importance of these elements in 19th-century society. The painting's muted palette and loose brushstrokes lend it an air of authenticity, further reinforcing its Realist aesthetic.