Surroundings of Vichy, house near the water 1867

Jean-François Millet created this pen and watercolor drawing called 'Surroundings of Vichy, house near the water' sometime in the mid-19th century. The artwork represents a modest cottage nestled amidst tall trees, presumably located near Vichy, France. Millet was part of the Barbizon School, a group of artists who rejected the academic tradition of history painting in favour of realistic scenes of the French countryside and peasant life. The image creates meaning through the use of simple lines, natural light and muted colors to portray rural life. In 19th century France, rural life was changing due to industrialization and urbanization, which saw many people moving from the countryside to the city. The Barbizon school was instrumental in valorizing the countryside as a site of authentic values. Millet's work reflects this broader cultural moment when intellectuals and artists were rethinking the relationship between nature and modern life. Art historians can use archival records and critical reviews to learn more about how Millet's paintings engaged with the social issues of his time.