The Children

The Children by Camille Pissarro, created in 1880, is an important example of the artist’s innovative exploration of mixed media on textile supports. Classified specifically as a Drawing within the collection, this piece utilizes the complex technique of opaque watercolor with precise applications of graphite on a canvas, which was subsequently mounted onto a board for structural stability. This chosen combination allowed Pissarro to achieve both the delicate, atmospheric effects characteristic of watercolor and the rigorous definition of form and line found in graphite drawing, blurring the traditional boundaries between media classifications.

Working within the pivotal artistic period of 1876 to 1900, Pissarro often shifted his focus from the purely topographical landscapes for which he was known to concentrate on intimate, domestic genre scenes. This particular work captures two young figures, depicted in a quiet, perhaps preparatory moment. Pissarro’s approach to the subject matter aligns with the goals of French Impressionism, avoiding the highly idealized or overtly sentimental portrayals typical of earlier academic styles. Instead, the piece favors a focus on natural observation, using light handling and subtle coloration indicative of the rapid recording methods necessary for capturing ephemeral poses.

As a highly influential figure in late 19th-century French art, Pissarro continually refined his draftsmanship and experimented with unconventional surfaces. This composition provides insight into the domestic settings and close personal observations that increasingly informed his output during this productive decade. The artwork is a significant holding within the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Reflecting its status as a historical masterwork, this piece by Pissarro is often referenced in scholarly texts, and high-quality prints are frequently made available through public domain initiatives, ensuring widespread access for study and appreciation.