Mother and Child 1906

Lovis Corinth presents us with ‘Mother and Child,’ a visceral oil painting depicting a woman reclining and interacting with a young child, their figures illuminated against a somber backdrop. Here we observe the primal bond and the maternal embrace. The pose of the reclining woman, reminiscent of classical depictions of Venus, is here imbued with a raw, earthly quality. This motif echoes across centuries, from ancient fertility figures to Renaissance nudes, each iteration layering new cultural meanings onto the archetypal form. The intimate gesture of connection between mother and child taps into our collective memory, evoking feelings of nurturing, love, and the cycle of life. The image’s emotional power lies in its ability to evoke a sense of timeless connection. The vulnerability of the figures, combined with the gestural brushwork, engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level, stirring primal emotions tied to family, protection, and the enduring human experience. Thus, the cyclical return of motifs like the maternal figure reveals the non-linear progression of symbols, continually evolving and resurfacing through time.