Threshing 1994

Jesús Meneses del Barco created this painting of a rural scene with horses engaged in farm work, its date is unknown. The artwork evokes a traditional way of life, tied to the land. We can consider how the geography and economy of rural Spain may have shaped the imagery. As art historians, we might ask: What social class do these laborers belong to? What does their clothing suggest about their economic status? And how does this image reflect or challenge existing social norms of its time? We can consult historical archives and studies of rural Spain to better understand the social conditions. By examining the cultural references and visual codes within the painting, we can gain insights into the values and beliefs of the society in which it was created. It is in the context of lived experience that this artwork finds its fullest meaning.