"The Ferryman" by Camille Corot, painted in 1865,  presents a calm and lyrical representation of a countryside setting. The composition of the picture exhibits a symmetrical and harmonious arrangement, effectively depicting the presence of a ferryman engaged in his routine tasks. The ferryman navigating his boat across a serene river may be observed in the foreground. The gentle waves on the water's surface also add to the tranquility of his journey. The modest boat is characterized by its simplicity and, therefore, harmonizes with the surrounding natural environment. The depiction of the ferryman includes a combination of fluid brushwork, effectively communicating his movement and creating a sense of dynamism. Overall, the riverbank demonstrates a vibrant growth of nature, highlighted by the presence of multiple trees placed carefully to create a visual structure that guides the viewer's gaze toward the horizon. The vastness of the sky above reveals an impressive range, painted with the unique silvery hues commonly associated with the works of Corot. This particular palette provides an illuminating quality, allowing the light to be reflected on the water's surface and emphasizing the edges of the clouds. Despite the scene's simplicity, Corot employs various texture layers and tones, resulting in a rich visual experience.

Corot's time in Italy, especially in the Campagna (the area around Rome), was highly significant. He integrated the classical qualities of this landscape into his paintings, which were characterized by a poetic, melancholic mood. In "The Ferryman," Corot represents these notions by portraying nature not as wild or untamed but as a gentle, pastoral scene. This depiction of nature encourages contemplation and introspection. It echoes the Barbizon School’s preoccupation with the truthful depiction of the environment, shifting away from the grandiose and idealized landscapes that had dominated earlier periods. In this oasis of tranquility, human activity harmonizes with the natural rhythms of the environment.