Irene von Keller with son Balthasar 1888

Albert von Keller created this artwork with oil on canvas, featuring Irene von Keller with her son Balthasar. The composition is classically structured, focusing on the subjects’ gaze, which invites you into the painting’s emotional space. The artist plays with textures and colour to emphasize the subjects’ social standing. Irene’s creamy dress contrasts sharply with the dark fur stole, and the child's playful expression is accentuated by the stark white feather fan he holds. The background’s blues and reds create depth and complement the figures' skin tones. These formal elements aren’t merely decorative, though; they create a narrative about status and intimacy, reflecting the values of Keller’s time. Notice how Keller uses the gaze to engage the viewer. This technique is a reminder that art is not just about what is depicted but also about how it communicates, inviting constant dialogue and interpretation.