Prepare for an artistic revival as the National Gallery in London announces a major exhibition dedicated to the renowned French painter Jean-François Millet. Titled Millet: Life on the Land, this exhibition will be the first significant showcase of Millet’s work in the UK in nearly fifty years, opening in autumn 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Exhibition Title: Millet: Life on the Land
- Opening Date: Autumn 2025
- Featured Artwork: L’Angélus, on loan from the Musée d’Orsay
- Focus: The dignity of rural life and labor
- Significance: Celebrates the 150th anniversary of Millet’s death
A Tribute to Millet’s Legacy
This exhibition is not just a display of art; it is a tribute to Millet’s enduring legacy as a pioneer of the Barbizon school, a movement that emphasized the beauty of rural life. His works, which often depicted the struggles and dignity of peasant life, resonated deeply with British collectors during his lifetime, resulting in a rich collection of his pieces in UK public galleries.
Millet’s approach to art was revolutionary. He portrayed laborers with a sense of nobility and empathy, elevating their everyday struggles to a level of grandeur typically reserved for historical figures. Sarah Herring, Associate Curator of Post 1800 Paintings at the National Gallery, notes that Millet’s work reflects a profound understanding of the human condition.
The Exhibition Highlights
The exhibition will feature a variety of Millet’s works, organized into thematic sections that explore different aspects of rural life:
- Woodcutters and Sowers
- L’Angélus: The Soul of the Show
- Women and the Work of Survival
- The Faggot Gatherers
Why This Exhibition Matters
Millet: Life on the Land is poised to be a landmark event for art enthusiasts and historians alike. It offers a rare opportunity to engage with the works of an artist who profoundly influenced perceptions of rural life in the 19th century. The exhibition promises to shed light on the political undertones of Millet’s art and the dignity he bestowed upon his subjects.
As the National Gallery prepares for this significant event, art lovers are encouraged to mark their calendars for autumn 2025. This exhibition is not just a chance to view remarkable artworks; it is an invitation to explore the human side of history through the lens of one of its most compassionate artists. Stay tuned for more details as the opening date approaches!
