Fine Early 20th Century Oil - Cutting the Hayrick in Spring

Description

This charming early 20th-century Impressionist painting captures a typical rural farming scene rendered with loose, expressive brushwork. The composition centres on a substantial golden haystack or hayrick dominating the middle ground, with two workers positioned atop a loaded cart. For centuries, hayricks were built to feed livestock over the winter and early spring months, and this scene depicts farm labourers cutting the stack, as only a quarter is left, suggesting the end of winter and the nearing of warmer months. The sky above is rendered in brilliant blues and whites, with billowing clouds painted in quick, spontaneous strokes. A dark tree line stretches across the background, providing depth and anchoring the composition, while hints of green and blue suggest the surrounding landscape. The painting is presented in an elaborate gilt frame with ornate baroque-style ornamentation. Unsigned. On panel.

Condition

The condition is very good for a picture of this age. Light soiling to the surface of the artwork. The gilt-effect frame has a wonderful patina with only a small amount of damage to the lower left-hand ornament.

Size

24.5 x 34.5cm (9.6" x 13.6")
Framed Size: 47 x 57.5cm (18.5" x 22.6")