Moeder met kind kijkend in een spiegel 1856 - 1869

Charles Lemoine created this engraving, "Mother with Child Looking in a Mirror," sometime in the 19th century. The work offers us a glimpse into the world of domesticity and familial bonds. Here, a mother and child are captured in a moment of reflection, both literally and figuratively. The mirror serves as a portal, reflecting not just their images, but also the societal expectations and roles assigned to women and motherhood during this time. The mother, elegantly dressed, embodies the ideal of feminine grace and nurture, while the child represents innocence and potential. However, one might wonder about the woman’s gaze. Is it one of contentment, or is there a hint of longing for something more beyond the confines of her domestic sphere? The child's gesture, pointing towards the reflection, could symbolize a reaching out to the world, a desire for connection and understanding. This artwork prompts us to reflect on the complexities of identity, the weight of societal expectations, and the enduring power of the mother-child bond.