Peasant Woman from Around Ferrara
Original title: Peasant Woman from Around Ferrara
kurzbeschreibung
Edmé Jeaurat made this print, Bäuerin aus der Gegend von Ferrara, in 1734. It presents a woman in rural dress and belongs to a series of costume studies. The image is an etching with engraving.
Description
A wide-brimmed hat trimmed with flowers rests on the woman's head. She wears a long, voluminous dress with an elaborate bodice and sleeves decorated with blossoms. Her right hand holds a sheaf of grain, her left a straw hat. She stands on a rock under open sky, with mountains and trees forming the backdrop. Light falls evenly, without shadows; the layout is symmetrical and the figure placed at the center. An inscription with the title and publication details appears at the bottom of the sheet.
Context
Jeaurat published this motif in 1734 as part of a series of costume studies recording regional dress across Europe. Such prints were widely popular in the eighteenth century, catering both to ethnographic interest and to courtly curiosity about country life. The etching was produced in France and was likely issued in a large edition for collectors and travelers.
Impact
A calm, representative impression arises from the symmetrical arrangement and the detailed clothing. Even lighting and clear lines give the work a factual, almost documentary tone.
Technique
Etching was supplemented with engraving, allowing fine lines and precise hatching. The monochrome printing technique emphasizes fabric texture and the ornamental details of the dress.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)