Artwork

Roe Deer at a Stream

Roe Deer at a Stream, by Gustave Courbet, oil, 1868
Roe Deer at a Stream, by Gustave Courbet, oil, 1868

Roe Deer at a Stream is an oil painting by the Realist artist Gustave Courbet. It dates from 1868 and is held in the collection of the Kimbell Art Museum.

About this work

Overview

Roe Deer at a Stream is a painting executed in oil by Gustave Courbet in 1868. It is part of the Kimbell Art Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a tranquil scene of roe deer standing in a shallow stream, surrounded by rocks and trees, with a large rock formation in the background. The deer are the primary focus, conveying a sense of serenity.

Technique & Style

Courbet's use of color and light creates a sense of depth and dimensionality, reflecting his commitment to directly depicting nature.

Context

Courbet was a key figure in 19th-century French Realism, rejecting Romanticism and academic conventions in favor of observable subjects.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Gustave Courbet

Artist

Gustave Courbet

Jean Désiré Gustave Courbet (UK: KOOR-bay; US: koor-BAY; French: ; 10 June 1819 – 31 December 1877) was a French painter who led the Realism movement in 19th-century French painting.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Kimbell Art Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.