The artwork titled “Mother and Child” by Egon Schiele, created in 1914 at Vienna, Austria, is a compelling sketch and study rendered in pencil on paper. It is a prime example of Expressionism, a movement characterized by its focus on conveying emotional experience rather than physical reality. This piece measures 43.8 x 28 cm and presently resides in a Private Collection. The artwork illustrates Schiele’s distinctive style, featuring an intimate rendering of the bond between a mother and her child.
The drawing depicts a mother holding her child closely with both figures occupying the central position. Their embrace is intense and emotive, displaying the characteristic elongation of limbs and distortion of bodies that Schiele is known for. The mother’s eyes are downcast, and her protective posture around her child is palpable. The child, in contrast, looks out towards the viewer with eyes that seem to shine with innocence and curiosity. The striking use of color, possibly applied through gouache or watercolor, covers the figures, with the red-orange hue dominating the composition, perhaps symbolizing the warmth of their connection. The backdrop remains minimally detailed, drawing the viewer’s focus to the interplay of lines, form, and the deeply expressive quality of the two figures. The artwork’s execution, with Schiele’s signature line work, conveys a sense of raw immediacy and psychological depth, reflecting his renowned ability to capture the essence of human vulnerability and emotion.
