Oil on Canvas
81.5 x 132 cms, 32" x 52"
Signed lower right
 
Alexandre Jacob’s Aube d’Hiver is a mesmerizing portrayal of the French countryside at dawn, a time when the world is just beginning to wake from its slumber. This winter landscape reflects Jacob’s penchant for capturing the ephemeral qualities of light, a signature element that permeates much of his work. The sky dominates the composition, stretching across the canvas in a brilliant display of colour. The soft orange glow of the rising sun spreads its warmth across the horizon, gradually dispelling the cold grip of night. Jacob’s masterful handling of this early morning light infuses the scene with a sense of quiet anticipation, as if the day itself is holding its breath, waiting for the world to come alive.
 
Below the expansive sky, the river mirrors the unfolding dawn, doubling the effect of the sky’s radiance and creating a seamless connection between the heavens and the earth. This reflective quality not only enhances the luminous atmosphere but also draws the viewer's eye deeper into the painting, inviting them to explore the tranquil beauty of the scene. The river’s surface acts as a conduit for light, allowing the colours of the sky to dance across the water, blending the warm hues into a harmonious symphony.
 
Amidst this natural splendour, two figures are depicted beginning their day’s work, adding a human element to the landscape. Their presence is understated yet significant, symbolizing the quiet resilience of rural life. The figures, accompanied by their horses, seem almost absorbed by the landscape, their movements unhurried, in sync with the serene surroundings. The buildings on the horizon, likely farmhouses or barns, stand as silent witnesses to this daily ritual.
 
Jacob’s Aube d’Hiver invites the viewer to pause and appreciate the simple, yet profound, moments that make up the tapestry of everyday existence. Through his skilful use of light and colour, Jacob creates a landscape that is both intimate and expansive, capturing the timeless beauty of the French countryside at the break of day.