In the Forest

Jacque began his career as a printmaker, starting out as an apprentice map engraver at the age of 17. His prints published in the newspaper Le Charivari were lauded, leading to his selection from the Salon in 1845. In 1849, Jacque moved from Paris to the village of Barbizon along with the family of Jean-François Millet, living next door to the Millets. His friendships with Millet and Rousseau deepened his interest in oil painting, and he became known as “the painter of sheep” for his numerous depictions of sheep and shepherds. This painting shows a pastoral scene, with a shepherd and his flock resting at the foot of a leaning tree. Jacque portrayed each sheep’s actions, such as grazing or dozing, and their individual facial expressions in meticulous detail. (F.R.)