The artwork titled “Berceuse,” created by William-Adolphe Bouguereau in 1875, is an exquisite oil painting on canvas measuring 64.1 by 89.5 centimeters. This piece is part of the Academicism art movement and belongs to the genre painting category. Currently held in a private collection, “Berceuse” showcases Bouguereau’s mastery of classical techniques and his adeptness at capturing serene, intimate moments.
In the artwork, a young woman is depicted in a tranquil outdoor setting, seated beneath a canopy of trees. She is attired in a traditional dress with rich, warm colors, and leans gently towards a wooden cradle, which holds a peacefully sleeping infant. The composition highlights the woman’s tender care and the delicate interaction between mother and child. Her right hand holds a distaff, while her left hand is extended with a feather-light touch hovering over the infant, suggesting a lullaby or soothing gesture. The detailed rendering of the fabrics, the naturalistic depiction of the figures, and the subtle play of light and shadow attest to Bouguereau’s technical skill and his sensitivity to the emotional depth of domestic scenes.
