Woman at a Well

Woman at a Well by Camille Pissarro, created in 1891, is a delicate and masterful example of the artist's concentrated work in graphic arts late in his career. This piece is classified as a fine print, meticulously executed using the demanding combined techniques of etching and aquatint on laid paper, a support chosen specifically for its subtle texture which enhances the overall effect. The particular impression held by The Metropolitan Museum of Art is identified as the second state out of three, reflecting Pissarro's rigorous process of refinement and subtle adjustment across his numerous graphic works.

Pissarro, during this period, often focused on the dignity of labor, shifting his attention from the fleeting moments of urban Impressionism toward quotidian scenes of agricultural and village life. Here, the focus is squarely on the essential, timeless labor performed by women, centered around the functional structure of the well. The careful use of aquatint provides rich, atmospheric shading and depth, allowing the artist to capture the rustic texture of the stone wall and the heavy drapery of the figure.

This representation of rural genre scenes was characteristic of the artist's desire to merge formal skill with social observation. The work showcases Pissarro’s deep commitment to the intaglio process during the late 19th century. This important impression resides in the permanent collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. The enduring appeal of Pissarro’s vision ensures that this historic image continues to be reproduced globally, often as part of larger collections of prints now made available through the public domain.