La compagne du vieux pionnier canadien, 1912

Walter Klinkhoff Gallery, Montreal David Molson, Montreal Waddington & Gorce, Montreal Acquired by the present Private Collection, 2002

Pierre L'Allier, “Suzor-Coté, L'oeuvre sculpté”, Quebec City, 1991, pages 48-49

The faithful companion to “Le vieux pionnier canadien”, Pierre L'Allier describes “La compagne du vieux pionnier canadien” as more discrete than that of her partner, whose strong personality is imposed by the sculptor. Unlike her husband, "La compagne's" world is defined within the home. Suzor-Coté included clear detail in the quilted texture of the sitter's skirt (suggesting homespun clothing) and the grained design of the floor beneath her chair. Even at her advanced age, she continues to knit. Suzor-Coté's preoccupation with the gestures of “La compagne” are evident, paying special attention to the hands of the old woman, which show clear signs of strength and arthritic wear. L'Allier notes that “Le vieux pionnier canadien” and “La compagne du vieux pionnier canadien” form a pair of inseparable figures, completing a cycle of existence, the husband and wife symbolizing the tenacity and perseverance of rural life.