Basic Information

Historical Context

One of Zorn's breakthrough works, capturing a woman introducing a child to water for the first time. 1888 marks Zorn's transition from watercolor to oil. Visible squaring grid lines indicate this may be a preparatory study for a larger work. Content Description Two nude figures -- a woman and a young child -- standing at the water's edge. The woman stands from behind, her right arm protectively around the child's torso, guiding him to touch the water. Low horizon with water filling most of the background. Visible squaring grid lines across the surface. Warm flesh tones contrast with cooler water tones (blues, greens, violets). Artistic Analysis The painting captures a universal maternal moment. The protective arm gesture and the child's tentative posture convey tenderness and trust. The squaring grid reveals Zorn's working method. Water handling already demonstrates Zorn's emerging mastery as one of art history's greatest painters of water.