The Departure of the Flock 1880

"The Departure of the Flock" is a 1880 etching by French artist Félix Brissot de Warville, showcasing his meticulous detail and realistic depiction of rural life. The scene captures a shepherd tending to a flock of sheep as they depart from a simple, whitewashed barn. The use of delicate lines and subtle shading creates a sense of tranquility and emphasizes the everyday activities of rural life. The work highlights Brissot de Warville's skill in capturing the essence of nature and the human relationship with it, which resonated with a wider audience during a time of increasing urbanization. The etching is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection in New York City.