Painted just after the Franco-Prussian war, this allegory of foolish unpreparedness takes inspiration from Aesop's wise fable, "The Cicada and the Ant." The French artist's idyllically beautiful work was first exhibited at the 1872 Paris Salon and was seen as a critique of Napoleon III. Our authentic stretched canvas replica captures the original painting's texture, depth of color, and even its subtle brushstrokes, which are applied by hand. The imported, delicately carved hardwood frame boasts a delicate leaf motif with fine feathered detailing finished in antique gold tones.