Haymakers at Eragny 1889

Camille Pissarro created "Haymakers at Eragny", a painting that captures rural life through his distinctive Impressionist style. Pissarro, deeply involved in anarchist circles, often depicted the labouring classes with empathy and respect. Here, women are shown working in the fields, their bodies bent to the task of haymaking. Their red and blue clothing adds a vibrant contrast to the golden field. The repetitive, almost rhythmic, nature of the work is palpable, reflecting the cyclical and demanding nature of agricultural labour. Pissarro sought to find the beauty and dignity in everyday life, saying, "I want to show the essential things." This artwork invites us to consider the lives and contributions of working women in the late 19th century. The artist’s choice to focus on these figures elevates their status, challenging traditional representations. Pissarro makes visible the connection between labour, land, and community.