Paysanne française (maternity)

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Aimé-Jules Dalou (1838-1902) Motherhood (also known as French Laborer or Paysanne française)\nTerracotta, signed DALOU French, c. 1873-80\nDuring his nine-year absence in England, Dalou created a series of figurines showcasing women from various backgrounds in a style of compassionate realism, highlighting the rigid social hierarchy of modern society. Many were displayed at The Royal Academy, including an earlier version of this group, featuring a French working-class woman seated on a wooden basket, nursing her child. Despite its simple subject matter, the composition quickly gained popularity and was reproduced in various sizes and materials by the Sevres factory, including bronze, marble, and biscuit porcelain. It was also circulated as an engraving, which was later copied by Vincent Van Gogh.