Peasant Woman (recto); Boy with a Fishing Pole (verso) n.d.

Camille Pissarro made this sketch of a peasant woman with graphite and watercolor. During the 19th century, portrayals of rural life became increasingly popular, reflecting a complex mix of nostalgia for the countryside and a growing awareness of social inequalities. In this sketch, the woman's downcast gaze and the weight of her load evoke a sense of hardship. Pissarro, influenced by his anarchist beliefs, often depicted the dignity and resilience of the working class, countering the more romanticized views of peasant life common at the time. The handling of the garment may remind us of Millet's paintings. Here, however, the figure seems less monumental, more fragile. Ultimately, this intimate portrayal reminds us to consider the individual experiences behind broader social narratives. The artist captures a fleeting moment, inviting us to reflect on the humanity of those whose labor shapes our world.