The artwork titled “Children with Goldfish Bowl” was created by Paula Modersohn-Becker between the years 1906 and 1907. This piece, an exemplar of Expressionism in genre painting, is executed using oil, canvas, and tempera. Measuring 105.5 by 54.5 centimeters, it is housed at the Neue Pinakothek in Munich, Germany.
The artwork depicts a child holding a tray with two pieces of fruit. The child’s figure is stylized with bold, dark outlines and vibrant, contrasting colors, characteristic of the Expressionist style. The composition includes a goldfish bowl prominently placed on the lower left, with colorful fish that add life to the scene. Surrounding the child are lush green leaves, enhancing the lively atmosphere. The background is composed of abstract and muted tones, which creates a striking contrast with the primary subjects. This juxtaposition emphasizes the central theme of innocence and curiosity embodied by the child and the bright elements they interact with.
