The artwork “Mother and Child” by Pablo Picasso, dated 1902, is executed in oil on canvas. It exemplifies the Expressionism and Symbolism art movements. The piece measures 112.3 by 97.5 centimeters and falls within the genre painting category. Currently, this artwork is housed at the Fogg Museum, which is part of the Harvard Art Museums located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States.
The artwork depicts an intimate scene of maternal affection, showcasing a mother holding her child close to her bosom. They are enveloped in flowing, drapery-like garments that merge with the deep, monochromatic blue palette, characteristic of Picasso’s Blue Period. The composition emphasizes the bond between mother and child through the closeness of their embrace and the tenderness of their expressions. The sweeping lines and the application of blue hues evoke a sense of melancholy and depth, while the mother’s protective posture and the child’s tranquil demeanor suggest a haven of peace and emotional warmth within the canvas. The lack of other contextual elements directs the observer’s focus solely on the figures and their shared connection, thereby underscoring the universal theme of motherly love.
