A Water Baby c. 1900

"A Water Baby" is an oil painting by Herbert James Draper, a British Pre-Raphaelite artist, completed around 1900. The painting depicts a nude female figure with seaweed draped around her waist, standing over a giant pearl oyster shell, protecting a sleeping child within. The scene evokes a sense of magic and mystery, as the woman's gaze is focused on the sleeping child, her expression one of adoration. Draper's use of soft, luminous colors and meticulous detail creates a dreamy atmosphere, characteristic of the Pre-Raphaelite style. The work captures a captivating moment of innocence and fragility, hinting at the beauty and wonder of childhood.