February, from "Album of Rustic Subjects" 1859

"February", from the "Album of Rustic Subjects", is an 1859 lithograph by Charles Jacque, a French painter and printmaker known for his depictions of rural life. The artwork features a series of vignettes depicting various scenes from the French countryside in February. Jacque’s detailed depiction of daily rural life, including figures tending sheep, collecting firewood, and working in the fields, portrays the simplicity and harmony of nature, a common theme in his work. The print showcases Jacque’s masterful use of light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and realism. The work is part of a larger series that explores the changing seasons, providing a glimpse into the daily life of rural France in the 19th century.