Liefde (Caritas) 1850

This monochrome work, Liefde (Caritas), by Frédérique O'Connell-Miethe, presents us with a study in tonal gradations and textured surfaces. The artist employs a graphite pencil to sculpt a cluster of figures—a mother and her children—from the paper. The composition is structured to draw the eye towards the maternal figure at its center. The artist uses light and shadow to create depth, modeling the forms with a delicate touch. Notice how the rough lines in the background contrast with the smooth skin. This contrast serves to highlight the idealized forms of the human figures. O'Connell-Miethe seems to be engaging with the semiotics of classical imagery, reinterpreting themes of motherhood through a lens that values both realism and idealization. The strategic deployment of line and form in the service of thematic expression encourages an appreciation of the enduring dialogue between tradition and innovation.