The artwork, titled “Still life, child’s head with a white cloth,” was created by Paula Modersohn-Becker in 1908. Rendered in tempera on cardboard, this piece is a notable example of Expressionism, measuring 45.3 x 66.2 cm, and belongs to the portrait genre.
The artwork portrays a child’s head gently wrapped in a white cloth, set against a stark, dark background. The child’s serene face, with closed eyes and subtle, tender features, is illuminated by soft, diffused light that emphasizes the delicate texture of the skin and the gentle folds of the white cloth. The use of tempera on cardboard creates a textured, almost ethereal quality, which is further enhanced by the controlled yet expressive brushstrokes characteristic of the Expressionist movement. The dark background serves to contrast the child’s pale, almost glowing visage, creating a poignant and intimate atmosphere. This piece captures a sense of stillness and introspection, inviting contemplation of innocence and purity.
