Paul Serusier – Farmhouse at Le Pouldu National Gallery of Art (Washington)

The composition presents a rural scene dominated by a substantial farmhouse structure. The buildings walls appear constructed from earth and straw, lending it a rustic, almost primitive quality. A steeply pitched roof, covered in what seems to be thatch or similar material, defines the upper portion of the edifice. Windows are sparsely placed, their dark openings suggesting interior spaces devoid of immediate illumination. To the right of the farmhouse, a large mound of hay or dried vegetation is piled high, its golden hue contrasting with the earth tones of the building itself.
A pathway leads towards the farmhouse, and along it walks a solitary figure – a woman dressed in simple, dark clothing, her head covered by a bonnet. Her posture suggests a contemplative state; she appears to be pausing on her journey, perhaps observing the surroundings or lost in thought. The placement of this individual draws attention to the scale of the building and emphasizes the sense of isolation inherent within the rural setting.
Behind the farmhouse, a landscape unfolds – a vista of rolling hills and fields under a blue sky punctuated by patches of cloud. Tall trees punctuate the horizon line, their dark silhouettes adding depth to the scene. The color palette is restrained, primarily utilizing earthy browns, greens, and blues. This limited range contributes to a somber, melancholic atmosphere.
The artist’s technique involves broad brushstrokes and flattened perspective, which diminishes spatial recession and creates a sense of visual compression. Theres an intentional lack of detail; the forms are simplified and generalized rather than rendered with photographic accuracy. The overall effect is one of quiet dignity and a profound connection to the land.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of labor, tradition, and the passage of time. The woman’s presence suggests a life lived in close proximity to nature and bound by routine. The farmhouse itself becomes a symbol of enduring stability amidst an ever-changing world. The subdued color scheme and simplified forms evoke a sense of nostalgia for a simpler way of life, while also hinting at the hardships inherent within rural existence.