The Hamlet of Optevoz is a charcoal and lead white drawing created around 1852 by Charles-François Daubigny. This artwork depicts a peaceful evening scene in Optevoz, a small town in Rhône river valley. Daubigny’s style is considered an important precursor to Impressionism, and this particular work showcases his use of atmospheric depiction rather than focusing on details.
Daubigny hailed from a family of painters and was taught by his father and uncle. He is part of the Barbizon school of painters, alongside other notable artists like Jean-Francois Millet and Theodore Rousseau. His works often depict landscapes in the French countryside, featuring soft colors and loose brushstrokes.
“The Hamlet of Optevoz” displays these characteristics through its muted tones and soft lines, capturing the serenity found in rural life. It also sacrifices fine details for a more atmospheric depiction, evoking emotions rather than just objective reality. Another painting by Daubigny with similar stylistic choices is “The Flood-Gate at Optevoz.”
Overall, “The Hamlet of Optevoz” showcases Daubigny’s talent for capturing tranquil landscapes through minimalistic yet effective techniques.
