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Liberty

1848–49

Jean-François Millet

(French, 1814–1875)
Culture
France, 19th century
Medium
black chalk and pastel
Support
Beige modern laid paper
Measurements
Sheet: 47.2 x 31.7 cm (18 9/16 x 12 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Bequest of Muriel Butkin 2008.395
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

Liberty relates to Jean-François Millet's entrance into the 1848 competition for an official painted figure representing the second French Republic. Millet did not win the competition and his painted Republic no longer exists, but this representation of a related concept—liberty—was inspired by his contest participation. He also drew allegories of the other two fundamental concepts in French Republicanism: equality and fraternity.
A vertically oriented hazy black chalk and pastel drawing on beige paper depicts a woman with light skin tone leaning against a dark tree. She wears a cream gown and red cap. Her right arm is raised holding a staff, while her left arm reaches down to grasp a figure. Several slumped bodies lie at her feet. Muted colors fill the somber scene. The signature J.F. Millet is at the bottom right.

Liberty

1848–49

Jean-François Millet

(French, 1814–1875)
France, 19th century

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