Peasant Woman, Stooping, Seen from the Back 1885

Vincent van Gogh rendered "Peasant Woman, Stooping, Seen from the Back" using a drawing material on paper. Van Gogh's deep connection to the working class, particularly peasants, was shaped by his early religious and social beliefs. This image departs from conventional representations; instead of romanticizing rural life, it confronts the harsh realities of labor. The faceless depiction of the woman, her body bent in perpetual toil, speaks volumes about the physical and emotional toll of her work. Van Gogh once stated, "One must undertake with confidence, with assurance, and have faith in one's actions." Here, this faith translates into an unflinching portrayal of labor. The drawing reflects the period's societal attitudes towards women and the working class, while also underscoring the artist's profound empathy and respect for his subjects. It serves as a poignant reminder of the lives often overlooked in mainstream narratives.