Let the Little Children Come Unto Me 1908

Editor: Here we have Eduard von Gebhardt’s “Let the Little Children Come Unto Me,” painted in 1908. It’s an oil painting depicting Jesus surrounded by children and their families. I’m immediately struck by its muted palette, almost like a faded photograph, which lends a sense of solemnity. What do you make of this artwork? Curator: Solemn is a good word for it! For me, it whispers stories of faith seen through a very particular lens. Gebhardt, deeply religious himself, wasn't just painting a biblical scene, he was also commenting on contemporary social values in Germany. Think of it: these aren't idealized cherubs but real children, perhaps even the very picture of everyday German youngsters. The women's caps feel so intentionally…there, you know? Editor: Like he's intentionally placing it in a specific time and place. So it's not just about the bible story but how it applies to his own world? Curator: Precisely. It's less about a divine echo from the distant past and more about the presence of grace in the present. The scene takes place, most notably, OUTSIDE of any kind of Church architecture, indicating faith and blessings present in unexpected places. Why do you think Gebhardt placed his Jesus among the rural folk? Editor: Perhaps to emphasize a more intimate connection with the divine, rather than through formal religion? Curator: Absolutely! Gebhardt paints, in essence, a sermon, using colour and light instead of words. How has seeing it that way shifted your own view? Editor: It's made it feel much more personal and relatable, really, this painting feels closer to home. I didn’t expect that at all! Curator: It is, ultimately, about that human connection, both within the story and between the painting and ourselves, don't you think?