#44686 Aurelio Arteta (1879-1940)

The painting presents a scene of autumnal harvest, likely in an orchard or vineyard. Several women are depicted engaged in picking fruit, their actions suggesting both labor and a certain degree of leisure. The composition is horizontally oriented, emphasizing the breadth of the landscape and the collective activity taking place within it.
Here we see a group of figures arranged across the canvas, some standing, others seated on what appears to be a draped surface – a vibrant red that dominates the foreground. This bold color choice draws immediate attention and creates a sense of warmth and abundance. The women are dressed in simple garments, predominantly white and red, which contribute to the overall feeling of rustic simplicity and traditional rural life. Their faces are rendered with a degree of idealization; expressions range from serene contemplation to gentle smiles, conveying an atmosphere of contentment rather than hardship.
The background is characterized by dense foliage painted in warm hues – yellows, oranges, and browns – evoking the season’s characteristic colors. The light source seems to originate from above and slightly to the left, casting a golden glow over the scene and highlighting the figures faces and clothing. This illumination contributes to an impression of idyllic beauty and tranquility.
Beyond the literal depiction of harvest work, the painting appears to explore themes of community, femininity, and connection with nature. The women’s collaborative effort suggests a shared purpose and interdependence. Their relaxed postures and expressions imply a harmonious relationship between labor and enjoyment. The abundance of fruit symbolizes prosperity and fertility, while the natural setting reinforces the idea of humans existing in harmony with their environment.
The artists choice to depict these women not as anonymous laborers but as individuals with distinct personalities adds depth to the work. It moves beyond a simple representation of agricultural activity to suggest a celebration of rural life and the dignity of labor, imbued with an underlying sense of nostalgia for a simpler time.