May, from "Album of Rustic Subjects" 1859

"May," from Charles Jacque's "Album of Rustic Subjects" (1859), is a charming depiction of rural life in the French countryside. This black and white etching, featuring three distinct scenes, showcases Jacque's mastery of capturing the tranquility and beauty of nature. The first scene, titled "May," portrays a peaceful pasture with cattle grazing peacefully. The middle scene depicts a flock of birds against a serene backdrop, highlighting the simple joys of nature. The bottom scene, depicting a shepherd tending to his sheep, further emphasizes the pastoral theme. This artwork, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies Jacque's signature style, which combined meticulous detail with a sense of idyllic peace.