Mother and Child

  • Social Sharing

Mother and Child

ca. 1893

John Henry Twachtman

During the Gilded Age (ca. 1877–1900), American Impres- sionist John Henry Twachtman frequently painted domestic scenes that reflected an idealized and traditional view of motherhood. He did so during a period that was in reality marked by rapidly shifting social norms and roles, particularly for women. 

Here he depicted his wife, Martha, holding up their seven- month-old baby Quentin to a mirror. As she gazes lovingly at her son, he stares at his reflection, and the viewer wonders if he will react with pleasure or surprise. The painting also features another artwork hanging behind Martha on the right side of the canvas, locating the scene in the artist’s home.

Artist
John Henry Twachtman
Title
Mother and Child
Date
ca. 1893
Place of Creation
United States
Object Type
Painting
Medium
Oil on canvas
Dimensions
30 1/8 x 25 1/8 in. (76.5 x 63.8 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of the family of Jacob Stern from his collection
Accession Number
2007.45

Currently on view

New acquisitions