Laratura (1881-82) Collezione Privata Giovanni Fattori (1825-1908)

The canvas presents a scene of rural labor, dominated by the presence of two oxen and a farmer engaged in plowing. The composition is structured around a diagonal line formed by the furrow being turned over, which leads the eye upward towards a sky filled with swirling clouds. Here we see a landscape rendered with an emphasis on texture and color; the earth appears dark and rich, contrasting with the pale tones of the animals and the farmer’s clothing.
The artist has employed a thick impasto technique, particularly evident in the depiction of the soil and the oxens hides. This application of paint creates a palpable sense of physicality and weight, reinforcing the arduous nature of the work being performed. The brushstrokes are visible and energetic, contributing to an overall feeling of movement and vitality within the scene.
The farmer is positioned centrally, his posture suggesting exertion and focus. He appears almost absorbed in the task at hand, his face obscured by shadow, which lends him a certain anonymity – he becomes representative of agricultural labor rather than an individual portrait. The oxen are depicted with considerable detail; their musculature is evident, and their heads are bowed as they pull the plow through the earth. Their presence underscores the symbiotic relationship between human and animal in this agrarian setting.
Beyond the literal depiction of plowing, the painting seems to explore themes of toil, perseverance, and connection to the land. The sky, with its turbulent clouds, introduces a sense of drama and perhaps even foreboding, hinting at the challenges inherent in agricultural life. The muted color palette reinforces the somber mood, while simultaneously conveying a feeling of earthy authenticity. There is an underlying suggestion that this work is not merely about physical labor but also about the cyclical nature of seasons and the enduring rhythm of rural existence. The absence of any human habitation beyond the worker further emphasizes the isolation and self-sufficiency characteristic of such landscapes.