Baby 1882

This is a drawing called 'Baby' by Vincent van Gogh. The work uses chalk and ink, and is rendered in muted tones against a dark background. The child's figure is softly modeled with subtle gradations of light, creating a tender yet straightforward study. Van Gogh's marks capture the baby's rounded face and the soft folds of its bonnet and clothing. The artist's use of line and tone works in concert, defining form while preserving the overall sense of gentle stillness. Though representational, it is possible to discern the formal interests of van Gogh as he balances the representation of the figure with his mark making. The subdued palette suggests a turn away from the conventional bright colours of impressionism toward a more internalized expression. In the context of late 19th century art, the drawing signals an attempt to engage with questions of realism, representation, and subjective expression.