#47274 Alexandre De Riquer e Ynglada (1856-1920)

The drawing presents a tender domestic scene within a circular frame. A woman, positioned centrally and dominating the composition with her height, leans towards a child lying on what appears to be a cushion or low platform. Her gaze is directed downwards, focused intently on the infant’s face, while one hand gently touches his cheek. The childs expression conveys distress; tears stream from his eyes, and his mouth is slightly open in a cry. A second, smaller child sits nearby, observing the interaction with an attentive, almost curious, demeanor.
The woman’s attire consists of a simple draped garment that reveals the contours of her form without excessive detail. Her hair is long and flowing, cascading down her shoulders and back. The artist has rendered the drapery with meticulous attention to folds and shadows, creating a sense of volume and realism.
The second childs presence introduces an element of narrative complexity. He isn’t directly involved in the immediate interaction between the woman and the crying infant, yet his posture suggests observation and perhaps empathy. The placement of foliage – likely peonies – around the base of the cushion adds a decorative touch while also contributing to the overall sense of intimacy and domesticity.
The monochromatic palette emphasizes the drawings tonal range and line work. The artist utilizes hatching and cross-hatching techniques to create depth and texture, particularly in the rendering of the drapery and facial features. The circular format lends a feeling of completeness and containment, focusing the viewer’s attention on the central figures and their emotional exchange.
Subtly, the drawing explores themes of maternal care, vulnerability, and perhaps even the complexities of familial relationships. The womans focused gaze suggests not only comfort but also concern, while the crying child embodies a moment of fragility. The presence of the observing child hints at the cyclical nature of parenting and the transmission of empathy across generations.