Woman with a Rake 1856 - 1857

"Woman with a Rake" (1856-1857) by Jean-François Millet is a poignant depiction of rural life, showcasing a woman engaged in the labor-intensive task of raking hay. The painting, characteristic of Millet's Realist style, emphasizes the dignity and hardship of peasant work. The lone figure of the woman, dressed in simple clothing and bent over her task, embodies the quiet resilience of the working class. The subdued color palette, dominated by earthy tones, further emphasizes the rural setting and the arduous nature of the work. The background features a distant landscape with other figures in the distance, suggesting a community united in the shared experience of toil.