The artwork “Peasant and Child” by Camille Pissarro was created circa 1890, employing watercolor on paper as the medium. The piece measures 21.3 x 17.5 cm and falls within the Impressionism art movement, typically characterized by an emphasis on the depiction of light and its changing qualities. This particular artwork is a portrait and is presently held in a private collection.
“Peasant and Child” illustrates the intimate moment between a peasant woman and a young child in a rural setting. The woman appears to be bending down towards the child, perhaps in a comforting or protective gesture. The watercolor technique allows for soft hues and diffused edges, which is indicative of Pissarro’s impressionistic approach to capturing the essence of a scene rather than delving into meticulous details. The brushwork conveys movement and fluidity, with the figures being delineated by loose yet expressive lines. The background is suggested with light washes of color, ensuring that the focus remains on the interaction between the figures. The emotional content of the portrait is gently evoked, reflecting a moment of everyday life that resonates with tranquility and tenderness.