Portrait of a Boy 

Albert Bloch created this oil painting, "Portrait of a Boy," and signed it in 1911. The portrait offers a glimpse into the cultural and social landscape of the early 20th century. The young boy, dressed in a somber coat and hat, stands against a muted red background. The overall atmosphere is one of introspection, perhaps reflecting the broader anxieties and uncertainties of the time. Bloch was born in America but became a central figure in the German Expressionist movement, whose works are often infused with social commentary. Did Bloch intend to reflect on the experiences of the working class or comment on the changing roles of children in society? Understanding the social context of art, through documents, letters, or historical records, allows us to see the painting as more than just a depiction of a boy, but as a reflection of a specific moment in time.