Pres De La Fontaine Leon Augustin Lhermitte (1844-1925)

The canvas presents a rural scene imbued with a sense of quietude and everyday labor. Here we observe two women engaged in drawing water from a stone fountain situated at the base of a gentle slope. The composition is dominated by earthy tones – ochres, browns, and muted greens – which contribute to an overall feeling of warmth and naturalism.
The artist has positioned the fountain as a focal point, its weathered stonework suggesting age and permanence. Water flows from a central spout into a stone basin, while the women utilize wooden buckets for their task. One woman is actively drawing water, her posture conveying effort, while the other stands nearby, seemingly observing or awaiting her turn. A small dog rests near the first woman, adding a touch of domesticity to the scene.
The landscape behind them rises gradually, covered in dense foliage and punctuated by scattered trees. The light appears diffused, suggesting either early morning or late afternoon, casting soft shadows across the ground and highlighting the textures of the vegetation. A rough-hewn cart sits near the fountain, hinting at the transportation of water back to a dwelling.
Beyond the immediate depiction of labor, the painting evokes themes of community and connection to the land. The womens shared task implies interdependence and a reliance on communal resources. The setting itself – a natural spring nestled within a rural landscape – speaks to a simpler way of life, one rooted in tradition and close proximity to nature.
The brushwork is loose and impressionistic, prioritizing atmosphere over precise detail. This technique contributes to the painting’s sense of immediacy and authenticity, allowing the viewer to experience the scene as if observing it directly. The overall effect is one of tranquil beauty, celebrating the dignity of everyday work and the enduring relationship between humans and their environment.