Mother and child (Portrait of A. N. Feshina with her daughter) (1914) Nikolay Feshin (1881-1955)

The composition centers on a tender domestic scene: a woman feeding her child. The artist positioned the figures in close proximity, emphasizing intimacy and connection. The mothers face is partially obscured, rendered with broad strokes of dark pigment that suggest a shadowed profile; this deliberate ambiguity directs attention towards the infant.
Here we see the child’s gaze fixed directly on the viewer, an expression of wide-eyed curiosity dominating their features. Their skin appears soft and luminous against the white fabric of their clothing, which is painted with loose, energetic brushwork that captures the texture and folds of the material. The mother holds a spoon poised near the childs mouth, suggesting a moment of nurturing and care.
The color palette is dominated by warm tones – ochres, browns, and reds – which contribute to a sense of warmth and comfort. These hues are juxtaposed with cooler blues in the child’s eyes, creating a focal point that draws the viewer into their expression. The background appears dark and indistinct, further isolating the figures and intensifying the focus on their interaction.
The application of paint is characterized by visible brushstrokes, indicative of an impressionistic approach. This technique lends a sense of immediacy and spontaneity to the scene, as if capturing a fleeting moment in time. The loose handling of form suggests a prioritization of feeling over precise representation.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of maternal love, innocence, and vulnerability. The obscured face of the mother hints at a selflessness inherent in motherhood – a willingness to recede into the background for the sake of her child. The infant’s direct gaze invites empathy and underscores their dependence on the caregiver. Overall, the work evokes a sense of quiet contemplation about the profound bond between parent and child.