The artwork, titled “When the Children have Gone to Bed,” was created by Carl Larsson around the year 1895 in Sweden. This watercolor painting on paper is part of the Art Nouveau (Modern) art movement and belongs to the genre of genre painting. It measures 43 by 32 centimeters and is a component of Carl Larsson’s “A Home” series. This notable piece can currently be found in the Nationalmuseum located in Stockholm, Sweden.
The artwork depicts a serene domestic scene, characteristic of Larsson’s emphasis on intimate family life. In a warmly lit, cozy room, a figure is seated in a wooden chair beside a table, engrossed in a book. The table is adorned with an elegant lamp, which emanates a comforting glow, illuminating the surrounding area. The room features wooden furniture, including a bench with cushions against the wall, and is decorated with potted plants on the windowsill, which looks out onto a dark, starry night. The walls are light-colored and sparsely adorned with a few hanging items that add a personal touch to the space. To the left, a stove provides further warmth to the scene. The overall composition reflects a peaceful, intimate moment of quietude and relaxation after the children have retired to bed, showcasing Larsson’s talent in capturing the simplicity and beauty of everyday life.
