Child learning to walk before 1859

Wilhelm Marstrand made this oil painting sometime in the 19th century. The way Marstrand applied the paint really brings out the material quality of the scene. There's a looseness to his brushwork, especially in areas like the landscape visible through the archway, that gives the impression of spontaneity and a quick capture of a fleeting moment. The thickness of the paint creates texture, adding depth to the figures and architectural elements. You can almost feel the rough texture of the stone walls and the softness of the clothing. The earthy tones and warm palette contribute to the intimate atmosphere. Marstrand’s handling of the oil paint allowed him to build up layers of color and light, giving the scene a sense of vitality. He seems less interested in the clean, smooth surfaces that were prized in earlier painting, and more attuned to the immediate act of putting pigment to canvas. He’s showing us the value of labor, but also how the stuff of life is made from humble materials.