Constantin émile Meunier (1831–1905): The Reaper

Artist: Constantin Émile Meunier (1831–1905)

Place of Origin: Belgium

Date: 1892

Style: Realism

Material / Technique: Patinated bronze, cast

Foundry: Fonderie B. Verbeytst, Brussels

Dimensions:
Height: 56 cm
Width: 44 cm
Depth: 27 cm

Signature: Signed and bearing the foundry mark

Condition: Good condition.

Price: Upon request

Created in 1892, The Reaper by Constantin Émile Meunier belongs to one of the central themes of the artist’s oeuvre: the dignified and monumental representation of manual labour.

The figure is shown in the midst of physical exertion, leaning forcefully forward as he works. The diagonal movement of the body, the wide stance, and the long line of the scythe create a dynamic yet firmly balanced composition. Meunier does not present the figure as an idealised allegory, but as a labourer defined by the intensity of his gesture and the physical reality of his work.

The Reaper forms part of Meunier’s broader body of work devoted to miners, dockworkers, industrial labourers, and peasants, which represents one of the major achievements of late 19th-century Belgian Realism. The sculpture combines close observation of a specific working action with a monumental treatment of the human figure.

This bronze example is signed and bears the mark of Fonderie B. Verbeytst, Brussels.