Peasants Carrying Sticks (Paysannes portant des fagots)

Camille Pissarro's "Peasants Carrying Sticks (Paysannes portant des fagots)," a print made in 1896, offers us a glimpse into the realities of rural life in the late 19th century. Here at the National Gallery of Art, we have the privilege of viewing this intimate portrayal. The print, measuring 0.285 meters wide and 0.21 meters tall, draws our attention to two women who dominate the foreground. They carry large bundles of sticks on their backs, their bodies bent under the weight. Pissarro's choice to depict them with their faces turned downwards suggests a sense of weariness, the toll of their labor evident. Notice how he uses long, dark dresses and headscarves to further emphasize their humble existence. The path winding behind them leads our eyes towards a distant group of figures, hinting at a larger community beyond this scene. Pissarro masterfully employs a sketchy, impressionistic style, particularly in the background. Trees and foliage are suggested by quick, swirling lines, creating a sense of movement and atmosphere. The muted palette of browns and grays adds to the somber tone of the piece. "Peasants Carrying Sticks" is more than just a depiction of a moment in time; it's a testament to the hard work and resilience of peasant women, a theme that resonated deeply with Pissarro and his fellow Impressionists.