Kind liggend op de rug, de benen omhoog 1741 - 1820

This drawing of a child lying on its back with legs up, was made by Abraham Delfos in the 18th century. The positioning of the child, vulnerable and exposed, reminds us of similar motifs throughout art history, particularly the Christ Child in Nativity scenes, often shown in swaddling clothes. Consider the infant Hercules strangling serpents; a divine child demonstrating superhuman power, a motif echoing back to ancient Egypt. This seemingly simple drawing connects to a lineage of images of infancy, loaded with symbolism of potential, innocence, and divinity. The vulnerability of the child engages the viewer on a deep, subconscious level, triggering primal instincts of protection and nurturing. The image also captures a fleeting moment of joy. This motif has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in different historical contexts.