Description
Offered for sale is a rare and historically significant 1890 etching titled Barateuse (The Butter Churner), created by renowned French engraver Edmond Hedouin after an original painting by Jean-François Millet. This powerful image of a peasant woman churning butter exemplifies Millet’s celebrated focus on rural life and dignity in labor.
Printed in the late 19th century, this etching bears the markings:
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“Millet” – attributing the composition to the original artist, Jean-François Millet (1814-1875), a founding figure of the Barbizon school.
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“Barateuse” – the French title of the work.
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“Ed. Hedouin” – indicating Edmond-Adolphe Hedouin (1828-1889), the skilled engraver who interpreted Millet’s original.
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“Durand-Ruel Collection 1873” – referencing the original artwork’s provenance from the prestigious Durand-Ruel gallery, famed for promoting the Barbizon School and later the Impressionists.
This print is a posthumous edition, produced shortly after both artists’ deaths and likely issued by a reputable French publisher. Its connection to Durand-Ruel, combined with the collaboration between two important 19th-century French artists, makes it a standout piece for collectors of fine art, historical prints, or Barbizon-era works.
The etching is beautifully framed and ready to display. The plate impression is visible, and the paper exhibits age-appropriate toning consistent with late 19th-century printing.
Key Highlights:
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Rare 19th-century etching based on Millet’s iconic peasant subjects
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Engraved by Edmond Hedouin, a leading interpreter of Barbizon works
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Linked to Durand-Ruel, one of the most important art dealers of the era
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A fine example of posthumous art publishing with high historical and artistic value
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Beautifully framed and well-preserved
A remarkable opportunity to own a museum-worthy print rooted in the golden age of French realism and the foundations of modern art collecting.
