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The Sick Child, c.1664-c.1666. Creator: Gabriel Metsu
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The Sick Child, c.1664-c.1666. Creator: Gabriel Metsu
The Sick Child, c.1664-c.1666. A worried mother looks at her young daughter, slumped listlessly on her lap. Metsu chose an unusual subject, since depictions of poorly children are rare in 17th-century art. Perhaps he intended the mother to personify charity, Caritas. Then the picture of the Crucifixion on the wall would be a specific reference to Christ, who died for the love of Man on the Cross
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Allegorical Caring Charity Child Care Childcare Daughter Domestic Domestic Life Gabriel Metezu Gabriel Metse Gabriel Metsu Gabriel Metsue Gabriel Metz Gabriel Metza Gabriel Metzer Gabriel Metzu Gabriel Metzur Gabriel Mitzu Household Illness Metsu Gabriel Metsue Gabriel Metzue Gabriel Parent Personification Personifying Sick Sickness Unwell Allegorical Figure
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Gabriel Metsu's 'The Sick Child' (c.1664-c.1666) is a poignant and thought-provoking oil painting that captures the tender moment between a concerned mother and her ailing daughter. The Dutch Baroque master's innovative composition, which focuses on the domestic sphere and the theme of childcare, is a rare find in 17th-century art. Metsu's use of color and light creates a warm and intimate atmosphere, inviting the viewer into the indoor setting of the household. The mother, depicted as a caring and compassionate figure, looks intently at her daughter, who lies listlessly on her lap. Her worried expression and gentle touch convey a deep sense of love and concern. The allegorical significance of the painting is open to interpretation. Some art historians suggest that the mother represents Caritas, or charity, and the sick child symbolizes the suffering of mankind. The Crucifixion on the wall in the background may be a specific reference to Christ, who died for the love of mankind on the Cross. Metsu's masterful brushwork and attention to detail bring the scene to life, making it a powerful and moving representation of the bond between mother and child. The painting is a testament to the enduring themes of love, compassion, and care that transcend time and culture. This beautiful work of art, created by the Dutch painter Gabriel Metsu (1629-1667), is a valuable addition to the heritage of European art. It is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, where it continues to inspire and captivate visitors from around the world.
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