From 1889 onwards, Jules Dalou began to conceive a 'Monument to Workers'. Through visiting farms, mines and factories his artistic studies multiplied, both drawn and sculpted. In 1896 a model shows a column, with around its base twelve niches harbouring statues of workers, with at its summit a 'Peasant rolling up his sleeves'. The monument was never realised. In 1902, on Dalou's death, only the figure of the Peasant was finished. Exhibited posthumously, it remains impressive: avoiding the genre of a handsome athelete posed in the antique style, it presents a real peasant, with his body deformed by labour, captured while resting. His pose nevertheless remains noble and full of dignity. The scupltor, previously a communard and committed republican, managed to innovate while denouncing the alienation of man through labour.

This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan the World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, through which we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks and landmarks from across the globe for the public to access for free. Scan the World is an open source, community effort, if you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to find out how you can help.