Art Collections Online
The Gust of Wind
MILLET, Jean-François (1814 - 1875)
[image: The Gust of Wind]
Date: 1871-3
Media: oil on canvas
Size: 90.5 x 117.5 cm
Acquired: 1963; Bequest; Margaret Davies
Accession Number: NMW A 2475
Collection: The Davies Sisters Collection
In this dramatic moment, at the height of a storm, a great oak tree is torn from its roots as the wind ravages the landscape. Below, a small peasant figure gives scale to the event, implying romanticist ideas about the force of nature over man. It may also symbolise traditional rural life which Millet felt was being destroyed by the changing modern world.
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This work is currently on display:
Gallery 11
National Museum Cardiff, level 4
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2 comments
Domy on 8 September 2010, 15:10
Hello! I just have a question I have a painting
almost have similar scene landscape but Im trying to research the painter I cant understand g.millet or j.millet or f.millet
if ever have an idea i could send the picture of the painting might help.
thanking you in advice
Amgueddfa Cymru on 8 September 2010, 15:10
The Jean-François Millet who painted 'The Gust of Wind' and a number of other works in our collection, usually signed his works 'J.F. Millet'. There have been, however, numerous other artists with the surname 'Millet', so the initials on your picture may be different. If you send me a digital photograph and a close-up of the signature we might be able to gain more of an idea.
Kind regards,
Dr. Anne Pritchard, Assistant Curator of Historic Art
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