Shepherdess of Douarnenez 

Jules Breton painted this Shepherdess of Douarnenez with oil on canvas. Oil paint allowed Breton to capture the subtle light of the coastal sunset, as well as the details of the shepherdess's clothing. The way he applied the oil paint gives texture to the canvas, creating a sense of realism and depth. Consider the fabric of the shepherdess's dress and shawl. The texture and weight of the material communicate something important about her social status and the demands of her labor. Her bare feet, firmly planted on the earth, further emphasize her connection to the land and the physical nature of her work. The artist’s careful attention to these details reflects a broader interest in the lives of rural workers during a time of great social and economic change. Paying attention to materials, making, and context allows us to fully understand the meaning of this artwork. It challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.