Child’s head (1916)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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More about this artwork
In this fascinating oil painting titled "Child's Head," created in 1916, Belgian artist Gustave De Smet delves into the realms of expressionism to capture the innocence and contemplation often observed in the young. The painting presents a frontal portrait of a child with a hauntingly mature gaze, blending a combination of simplification and emotional depth that characterizes De Smet's mature period.De Smet's use of color is striking; the child's face appears almost sculptural, highlighted by patches of reddish blush on the cheeks and a muted, earthy palette that suggests a blend of thoughtfulness and vulnerability. The background, executed in soothing blues and contrasting with the warm tones of the face, further accentuates the central figure, isolating and magnifying the child’s expression.The eyes, wide and piercing, are a focal point of the work. They seem to speak volumes about the child's inner world, possibly reflecting De Smet's own feelings during the tumultuous times of World War I, when this piece was painted. This picture not only showcases De Smet's skill in capturing human emotion and expression but also offers viewers a moment to pause and reflect on the complexities hidden within a seemingly straightforward subject.