Haying

Description

Author: Kasteyev, Abylkhan. 1904-1973
A multi-figure genre composition set within a landscape depicts a haymaking scene: on a lush green meadow, men and women gather hay into stooks and stacks, centered around a horse harnessed to a cart, while mowing machines operate in the distance beneath a cloud-dappled sky. The composition relies on a panoramic expanse of the meadowland, where the workers’ figures are rhythmically distributed among the haystacks, guiding the viewer’s eye toward the horizon line. The execution is detailed and meticulous, showing careful rendering of the figures, haystacks, and the texture of the grass. The color scheme is built on the vibrant green tones of the meadow, enlivened by the golden hues of hay, the white shirts of the laborers, and a bright blue sky. The work captures a sense of collective labor and the vibrant rhythm of summer rural life. At the lower right - signature and date.