In the Country Lise Auger

The composition presents a rural scene during wintertime. A substantial stone house dominates the left side of the canvas, its warm ochre walls contrasting with the surrounding snow-covered landscape. The structure appears well-maintained and solid, suggesting stability and prosperity. Light emanates from within, visible through the windows, hinting at warmth and domesticity.
Before the house, a horse-drawn carriage is positioned in the foreground. Two dark horses pull the vehicle, their muscular forms rendered with considerable detail. A driver, clad in red, sits on the bench, facing forward. Several figures are bundled within the carriage itself; they appear to be a family group, their faces partially obscured by hats and scarves, creating an impression of intimacy and shared experience.
The background is characterized by a dense forest, its trees bare save for patches of lingering autumn foliage. The muted tones of grey and brown in the distant hills contribute to a sense of depth and distance. A blanket of snow covers the ground, reflecting light and adding to the overall atmosphere of coldness and stillness.
The artist’s use of impasto – thickly applied paint – is particularly noticeable on the snowdrifts, creating texture and visual interest. The brushstrokes are loose and expressive, conveying a sense of movement and energy despite the quiet subject matter.
Subtleties within the scene suggest themes of family, community, and connection to nature. The house represents shelter and belonging, while the carriage symbolizes travel and shared experiences. The figures in the carriage seem protected from the elements, yet simultaneously engaged with the surrounding environment. Theres a sense of tradition and continuity implied by the presence of horses and carriages – a visual link to an earlier era.
The overall impression is one of quiet contentment and resilience in the face of winter’s harshness. The painting evokes a feeling of nostalgia for a simpler, more rural way of life.