In The Gleaner, Daniel Ridgway Knight depicts a woman in a sunlit field, gathering leftover crops. The colors are warm, with golden yellows and earthy greens dominating the scene. The figure is dressed in traditional rural attire, suggesting a connection to the land and labor.

The background features a soft, blurred landscape that enhances the focus on the woman’s task. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a medium that allows for rich texture and depth. Knight's brushwork is detailed yet fluid, capturing the movement of the woman as she bends to collect the gleanings. The composition is balanced, with the figure placed slightly off-center, drawing the viewer's eye naturally.

The use of light creates a sense of time, likely late afternoon, adding warmth to the scene. Daniel Ridgway Knight was known for his depictions of rural life and the dignity of labor. This work reflects the Realist movement, emphasizing everyday subjects and scenes. An interesting fact about The Gleaner is that it showcases the artist's admiration for the hardworking women of the countryside, often overlooked in art of that era.

Knight's focus on such themes contributed to a greater appreciation of rural life in the 19th century.