Motherhood Raymond Daussy (1918-)

The composition presents a solitary female figure positioned in profile, her gaze directed towards an indeterminate point beyond the frame. She is visibly pregnant, her rounded abdomen being the most prominent feature of her form. The artist has rendered her with a stark realism, emphasizing the physical reality of pregnancy rather than idealizing it. Her attire consists of a dark skirt and blouse, contrasted by a red sweater that draws attention to her upper body and highlights the swelling of her belly. She holds an orange in her hand, its vibrant color providing a focal point amidst the muted palette of the scene.
The setting is urban, yet strangely desolate. A building labeled HOTEL stands on the left, suggesting a transient or temporary location. Behind the woman, a series of arches and passageways create a sense of depth and enclosure, while also contributing to an atmosphere of isolation. The sky above is overcast, lending a somber tone to the overall scene.
At her feet lies a small bird’s nest, containing a single egg. This detail introduces a layer of symbolic complexity. It could be interpreted as representing potential life, fragility, and vulnerability – themes intrinsically linked to motherhood and pregnancy. The juxtaposition of the pregnant woman with this delicate symbol amplifies the sense of responsibility and care associated with nurturing new life.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of solitude, expectation, and the burdens of existence. The architectural elements suggest a world that is both familiar and alienating, hinting at displacement or a loss of connection to ones surroundings. The woman’s posture conveys a sense of quiet resignation rather than joyous anticipation. She appears burdened not only by her physical state but also by an unspoken weight of circumstance.
The deliberate lack of interaction with the viewer reinforces this feeling of detachment and introspection, inviting contemplation on the complexities of motherhood within a modern, impersonal world. The color palette, dominated by muted tones punctuated by the orange’s intensity, further contributes to the paintings melancholic mood and underscores the emotional weight carried by the central figure.