Artwork
Mother and Child
Mother and Child is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Marcellin Desboutin. It dates from 1872 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.
About this work
Overview
'Mother and Child' is a 1872 oil painting by Marcellin Gilbert Desboutin, a French artist known as Baron de Rochefort. It is part of the Scottish National Gallery's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting captures a tender moment between a mother and infant. The mother's gentle expression and the child's upward gaze convey intimacy and warmth. A teacup and saucer on a nearby table add a sense of domesticity to the scene.
Technique & Style
Desboutin's use of muted colors and soft brushstrokes creates a serene atmosphere. The dark background with subtle hints of other objects focuses attention on the mother and child, while the green blanket and white lace trim provide subtle color accents.
History & Provenance
Created in 1872, 'Mother and Child' is associated with the Impressionist movement, although its subdued palette differs from some Impressionist works.
Artist & collection
Artist
Marcellin Gilbert Desboutin (26 August 1823 in Cérilly – 18 February 1902 in Nice) was a French painter, printmaker, and writer. Desboutin always signed himself Baron de Rochefort.
