The artwork “Pere Melon Resting” was created by Camille Pissarro in the year 1879. Executed in oil on canvas, it is a portrait that reflects the Impressionist style of painting for which Pissarro was well-known. The artwork measures 54 by 65 centimeters and, as of the time of this writing, it resides within a private collection.
“Pere Melon Resting” depicts an elderly gentleman taking a respite in a pastoral scene. The subject is seen seated on the ground, his legs crossed and his body tilted forward in a relaxed posture. His attire is simple and unassuming, consistent with rural life of the period, featuring a wide-brimmed hat and a light-colored, long-sleeve shirt.
The surrounding landscape is rendered with the characteristic loose brushwork of Impressionism, capturing the ephemeral play of light and color rather than focusing on meticulous detail. Dappled sunlight filters through the foliage, creating a pattern of light and shade that suggests a warm, tranquil environment. A basket lies nearby, which, along with a tool partially visible in the grass, hints at agricultural labor, suggesting that the man’s repose is well-deserved after physical work. Pissarro’s skillful use of color and shadow brings a sense of depth and realism to the scene, inviting the viewer to contemplate the serene moment alongside Pere Melon.
