Bela Czobel, Kislány 

This is Bela Czobel's portrait, “Kislány,” which translates to "Little Girl," created using charcoal. Czobel was a Hungarian artist whose career began around the turn of the 20th century, a period defined by the rise of modernism amidst significant social and political changes. Czobel, as a Jewish artist, was navigating a world of shifting identities and rising antisemitism. He, like many artists of his time, was deeply engaged with exploring the human condition. The portrait offers a glimpse into the complex interplay of innocence and experience. The soft lines and delicate shading evoke a sense of vulnerability, yet there’s a knowing look in her eyes. This representation diverges from traditional portrayals of children. The artwork invites us to reflect on the gaze, power, and the ways in which society shapes our understanding of youth and identity.