Mower after 1853

Jacques-Adrien Lavieille rendered "Mower" in ink on paper. The piece gives us a glimpse into the labor of rural life in 19th-century France. Lavieille, who was deeply influenced by Realism, often depicted the working class with an unvarnished eye. He lived during a time of significant social upheaval, marked by the rise of industrialization and urbanization, which led to increased class tensions and a renewed interest in the lives of those who toiled the land. In "Mower," we see a figure with their back turned, caught in the act of cutting hay. This vantage point invites us to consider the isolation and anonymity of agricultural labor. The work might reflect on the economic and social disparities of the time, highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of rural workers to society. Through its intimate portrayal, "Mower" evokes both a sense of respect and a poignant reminder of the human cost of labor.