The artwork, entitled “Affection”, was created by Hugues Merle and belongs to the Academicism art movement.
In the artwork, the viewer is presented with a tender and emotionally evocative scene featuring a young woman holding a child. The young woman, adorned with fair hair and delicate features, gazes directly at the viewer with an expression that conveys a deep sense of care and protectiveness. The child, nestled in her arms, turns its face towards her, creating a profound moment of closeness and warmth. The masterful use of light and shadow enhances the intimate atmosphere, while the detailed realism characteristic of Academicism is evident in the meticulous rendering of their facial expressions and attire. The overall composition imbues the piece with a sense of quiet reverence and timeless beauty.