Corot, Jean-Baptiste Camille – Un moulin a vent.Etretat-A windmill.Etretat. Wood, 38 x 58 cm R.F.1952-11 Part 2 Louvre

The composition presents a rural scene dominated by a weathered windmill situated on a slight rise overlooking a distant townscape. The artist has employed a muted palette, primarily consisting of earthy browns, greens, and grays, which contributes to the overall melancholic atmosphere. A heavy sky, overcast with dense clouds, presses down upon the landscape, reinforcing this sense of quietude and perhaps even foreboding.
The windmill itself is rendered with considerable detail, its wooden structure appearing aged and worn by exposure to the elements. The sails are partially visible, suggesting a recent or impending gust of wind. To the right of the mill, a small haystack sits adjacent to a cluster of trees, adding depth and texture to the foreground.
In the lower left corner, three figures are positioned near a path that leads towards the viewer. They appear to be peasants, dressed in simple, dark clothing. Their postures – one standing, two seated – suggest contemplation or weariness rather than active labor. The placement of these individuals within the composition subtly introduces themes of human existence and connection to the land.
The distant town, visible on the horizon, is rendered with less precision, appearing as a collection of rooftops and a single church spire rising above them. This deliberate blurring of detail emphasizes the distance between the rural setting and urban life, potentially hinting at a commentary on societal change or the allure of simpler times. The landscape’s recession into atmospheric perspective creates a sense of vastness and reinforces the smallness of both the windmill and the human figures within it.
The paintings subtexts revolve around themes of time, labor, and the relationship between humanity and nature. The dilapidated state of the windmill suggests the passage of time and the decline of traditional industries. The presence of the peasants evokes a sense of rural poverty and hardship, while their quiet contemplation invites reflection on the burdens of life. Ultimately, the work conveys a poignant mood, capturing a moment of stillness within a landscape shaped by both natural beauty and human toil.