Artwork
Shepherd and Flock at the Edge of the Forest, Evening
Shepherd and Flock at the Edge of the Forest, Evening is an oil painting by the Realist artist Jean François Millet. It dates from 1853 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.
About this work
Overview
Shepherd and Flock at the Edge of the Forest, Evening is an oil painting created by Jean-François Millet in 1853. It is a representative work of the Barbizon school and the Realism movement, depicting a serene rural scene.
Subject & Meaning
The painting shows a shepherd and his flock at the forest's edge on a tranquil evening. The simple attire of the shepherd and the natural surroundings emphasize the everyday, unidealized portrayal of rural life characteristic of Millet's work.
Technique & Style
The work features a subdued color palette dominated by earthy tones, contributing to its tranquil atmosphere. The depiction of the shepherd, flock, and forest is marked by direct observation, reflecting Millet's realist approach to painting.
History & Provenance
The painting is part of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston's collection. Created in 1853, it exemplifies Millet's focus on rural laborers and landscapes during his time as a co-founder of the Barbizon school.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jean-François Millet (French pronunciation: ; 4 October 1814 – 20 January 1875) was a French painter and one of the founders of the Barbizon school in rural France.
