Shepherds Resting by a Stream

1779

Jean-Baptiste Pillement

Associated Names
Jean-Baptiste Pillement

Artist, French, 1728 - 1808

The image depicts a landscape from a slightly elevated point of view. The horizon line is high, showing rolling hills and an old structure on a hill to the left. Figures in rustic clothing tend to a flock of sheep amidst rocky terrain and lush greenery. Trees of varying heights and a waterfall in the middle add depth and movement to the scene. The color palette consists of soft earthy tones with a clear, pale blue sky and wispy clouds. The brushwork is skillful and blends elements seamlessly.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    gouache and pastel on prepared canvas

  • Credit Line

    Robert H. and Clarice Smith Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall: 77 x 101 cm (30 5/16 x 39 3/4 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1983.72.1

Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

2009

  • Renaissance to Revolution: French Drawings from the National Gallery of Art, 1500-1800. National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2009, 241-241, 290, no. 104 (color).

2019

  • The Touch of Color: Pastels at the National Gallery of Art, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2019 - 2020, unnumbered catalogue.

Bibliography

2006

  • Jeffares, Neil. Dictionary of Pastellists before 1800. London, 2006: 420 (incorrectly recording as dated 1771; reproduced onlin, but not in the 2006 print edition).

  • Gordon-Smith, Maria. Pillement. Kraków, 2006: 191, 402-403, no. 183, fig. 183 (color).

Inscriptions

by the artist at lower left in black chalk: J. Pillement 1779

Wikidata ID

Q64581182

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