Haymaking Mathew’s Field Handsworth, Birmingham William Ellis (1747-1810)

The artwork presents a pastoral scene centered on agricultural labor. Here we observe a group of figures engaged in haymaking within a sprawling field. The composition is dominated by the undulating expanse of tall grass and scattered sheaves of cut hay, suggesting a period of harvest. Several individuals are actively involved in the work; some wield scythes, others gather the cut grass into piles, while one figure appears to be resting on a blanket, accompanied by a dog. Their attire – a mix of simple shirts, skirts, and head coverings – indicates a rural working-class background.
The artist has positioned a large tree centrally within the right side of the frame, its foliage providing visual depth and anchoring the scene. A stack of hay is visible near this tree, further emphasizing the agricultural theme. In the distance, a church spire rises above the horizon line, suggesting a nearby settlement or village. The sky displays a soft, diffused light, hinting at either dawn or dusk, contributing to the overall tranquil atmosphere.
The framing device – a dark, circular border – is striking and unusual. It isolates the scene within an oval shape, creating a sense of observation or viewing through a window. This frame draws attention to the depicted world as something separate from the viewers space, potentially suggesting a romanticized or idealized perspective on rural life.
Subtleties in the arrangement invite contemplation beyond the surface depiction of labor. The inclusion of the resting figure and dog introduces an element of leisure and companionship within the context of work. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the rhythms of agricultural life, where periods of intense activity are interspersed with moments of respite. Furthermore, the church spire in the background might symbolize faith or community, suggesting a moral framework underpinning the depicted rural existence. The overall effect is one of quiet dignity and connection to the land, albeit viewed through a lens that separates it from immediate experience.