The House of the Well (La maison du puits) 

Alphonse Legros made this print, "The House of the Well," using etching, a process that was undergoing a revival during his career. Legros was deeply influenced by his humble upbringing and the rural landscapes of France. His art often reflects a concern for the lives of the working class and the realities of rural existence. During the 19th century, rapid industrialization led artists to look to the countryside for authenticity and simplicity, yet Legros avoids romanticizing his subject matter. The print illustrates a connection to the land, revealing the presence of labor, and subtly evokes the everyday experiences of rural women and children as they draw water from the well. Although the figures are rendered on a small scale and with very simple lines, their presence invites consideration of gender and rural life. Legros sought to capture the essence of human experience and the dignity of labor. His dedication to realism provides a glimpse into the historical and cultural context of 19th-century France.