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Oil on Canvas: 29" x 57" |
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This beautiful scene depicts a family returning at dusk from their day’s work. Looking tired and a little worn, they are followed by their cow and have just reached the peak of the hill. The eldest looks enviously at his little sister’s luck of riding in the wheel barrow as the parents look concernedly at the rider. As evident of their best attire (the father in his vest and hat, mother in her scarf and purse, and the children in their best dress) it would seem they may have returned from Sunday service, but the rake resting on the woman’s shoulder and the cow behind them suggests perhaps a return from selling/trading at the market in town. Though the family is young, an emphasis and importance of family, unity, and good work ethics is unmistakable. The scene is one of simplicity, yet the artist has included soft, rich tones of dusk to heighten the beauty of the image. The horizon has turned a silvery gray as the sun has set, leaving only its golden rays to make their last presence above the clouds. Dusks subtle glows seem to reflect off of everything, especially that of the puddles along the road, and the whiteness of the cow’s hide. The artist has offered detail so subtly that his strokes are barely visible on the figures and their natural surroundings. |
Artist: Poul Steffensen
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*Poul Steffensen was known for his landscapes and genre paintings. His illustrations of life and times made his name and paintings instantly recognizable and are still adored to this day. His realist style reflects the classic academy tradition from the late 1800’s. |
