The Parquet Planers
1875 Musée d'Orsay
About this artwork
This painting depicts two shirtless Parisian laborers planing a wooden floor, with wood shavings scattered around them. It is an early and notable example of Caillebotte's interest in depicting contemporary urban life and the working class.
Did you know?
When first exhibited in 1875, 'The Parquet Planers' was rejected by the official Salon due to its stark realism and depiction of working-class subjects, which was considered too 'vulgar.' However, it was later embraced by the Impressionists and exhibited at their second group show in 1876, becoming one of Caillebotte's most celebrated works for its revolutionary subject matter and bold composition.
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The Parquet Planers
Gustave Caillebotte, 1875
