Child at Bath is a portrait painting created in 1886 by the French academic painter Adolphe-William Bouguereau. The artwork is an example of academicism style, which portrays mythological themes and classical subjects in paintings. The painting features a young child bathing in a rustic basin, with a facial expression that is calm and relaxed. The artwork reflects the classical style of academic painting that was popular in the late 1800s.
The painting was probably modeled after local peasant children in La Rochelle, France. Bouguereau was known for his technical skills, and he was awarded the Prix de Rome in 1850. He was popular in both France and the United States, and his paintings were praised for their smooth finish and exquisite detail. The original painting is currently housed at the Henry Art Gallery at the University of Washington.
Bouguereau’s artwork, including Child at Bath, is known for its idealized portrayal of the human body and its romanticized depiction of everyday life. The French artist often focused on the innocence and beauty of children in his paintings, and Child at Bath is a prime example of this. The painting’s use of soft, pastel colors and the detailed texture of the child’s skin showcases Bouguereau’s mastery of oil painting. Overall, Child at Bath is a remarkable artwork that represents the classicism of academic painting in the late 1800s.
