Pasture in Normandy

Pasture in Normandy is an eloquent drawing created by the French master Jean François Millet (1814-1875) during the decade spanning 1860 to 1871. Executed with black crayon on ivory laid paper, the work showcases Millet’s deep technical command of line and shadow, essential skills for the artist recognized internationally for his sympathetic depictions of rural life.

This piece, classified simply as a drawing, captures the specific geography and atmosphere of the Normandy region of France. Millet employs the black crayon to build dramatic tonal contrasts, defining the textures of the earth and foliage while suggesting the monumental scale of the open sky above. The powerful draftsmanship during this period reflected the artist’s shift toward landscape studies and away from strictly narrative scenes, placing him firmly within the aesthetic context of the Barbizon School. Millet utilized such studies to explore compositional ideas and refine his understanding of light's effect on natural forms, resulting in powerful yet understated portrayals of the natural environment.

As a significant example of 19th-century French drawing, this work offers intimate insight into the production methods of the 1814-1875 master. It remains a valued component of the permanent collection at the Art Institute of Chicago, illustrating the enduring appeal of Millet’s focus on the pastoral. Because many of Millet's essential studies and related images are now available in the public domain, high-quality prints and reproductions ensure that the technical brilliance displayed in this specific composition remains widely accessible for study and appreciation.