Maternal Affection 1867

Hugues Merle painted this vision of ‘Maternal Affection’ in oils, capturing a timeless symbol: the Madonna and Child. Here, the mother gazes tenderly at her child, an intimate moment echoing centuries of artistic and religious veneration. This archetypal image traces back to ancient goddesses cradling their infants. Consider the Egyptian Isis with Horus, a potent symbol of protection and nurture. The pose transcends cultural boundaries, reappearing in Byzantine icons, Renaissance Madonnas, and even contemporary portraiture. The universal appeal lies in the primal bond it represents, tapping into our collective memory of love, safety, and care. This tender embrace and adoring gaze are deeply entrenched in our psyche; in it, a profound sense of connection transcends time. Like a recurring dream, the mother and child motif resurfaces, reminding us of humanity’s enduring need for love and belonging.