Landevej. Saint-Parize-le-Châtel 1872

"Landevej. Saint-Parize-le-Châtel" is a monochrome work on paper by Johan Barthold Jongkind. Jongkind, who was born in the Netherlands in 1819, spent much of his career in France. His landscapes reflect an interest in the rural landscape, but also a deep connection to the changing social structures of 19th-century Europe. This sketch provides a glimpse into Jongkind’s artistic process. His quick and deliberate brushstrokes capture the atmosphere of the French countryside. The road in the image is more than just a physical path; it represents movement, change, and connection, both literal and metaphorical. Jongkind’s landscapes often evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia, reflecting the cultural shifts of his time. This artwork invites us to reflect on the relationship between landscape, memory, and identity. We may question whether the traditional pastoral landscape is maintained or if he develops alternative narratives. How does the landscape shape us, and how do we, in turn, shape the landscapes we inhabit?