Repose 1846

Rosa Bonheur painted this scene of rural tranquility, 'Repose,' sometime in the mid-19th century. She depicts a shepherdess and a young boy resting beneath a tree with their flock of sheep. Bonheur’s painting reflects a broader interest in rural life and the natural world that developed in France at the time. But, the painting also speaks to Bonheur's personal interest in challenging gender norms in the 19th century. She was known for her unconventional lifestyle, including wearing men's clothing, which allowed her greater freedom to move about in the world and to study animals. Her artistic success helped to break down barriers for women in the art world. Understanding Bonheur's biography, her place in the French art establishment, and the broader social context of 19th-century France, allows us to appreciate the complexities of this seemingly simple scene.