This pastel drawing by Armand Guillaumin captures a sun-drenched rural scene with loose, expressive strokes and a warm colour palette. The work exemplifies the artist's distinctive approach to Impressionism.

Armand Guillaumin (1841-1927) was a French Impressionist painter known for his vivid colour palette and depictions of the French countryside. Though he was friends with Monet and Pissarro, Guillaumin maintained a distinctive style throughout his career. He often worked in pastel, a medium that suited his interest in capturing fleeting light and atmospheric effects. His work is represented in major museums worldwide. À la campagne presents a view of a rural path leading toward a cluster of buildings. The scene is bathed in a warm, golden light, suggesting either early morning or late afternoon. The artist's use of colour is striking, with yellows and oranges dominating the composition. Touches of blue and purple are visible in the shadows and foliage, adding depth and contrast. A figure in a dark coat walks along the path, providing a sense of scale and human presence. The trees are rendered with loose, expressive strokes, contributing to the overall sense of movement and vitality.