Chestnut Vendors (Marchands de marrons) 1878

Camille Pissarro created this print called ‘Chestnut Vendors’ using etching, a printmaking technique that uses acid to cut into a metal plate. In late 19th century Paris, Pissarro, of Jewish-Portuguese descent, chose to depict working-class women, challenging the norms of bourgeois representation. Consider the social status of these women, marked by their labor and modest attire. This artwork captures a candid moment of their daily lives, revealing both the hardships and resilience inherent in their occupation. Pissarro’s choice of subject matter invites reflection on the intersection of gender, class, and labor in Parisian society. These women selling roasted chestnuts are not simply vendors; they are figures of strength who are contributing to the bustling urban economy. The artist elevates their status, acknowledging the often-overlooked contributions of working-class women. As you view this print, consider how Pissarro’s work provides a poignant commentary on the societal structures that shape our understanding of identity and worth.