The Cradle
This painting was created in 1872 by Berthe Morisot. It depicts her sister, Edma Portillon, watching over her baby daughter Blanche. This work has become one of Morisot’s most famous paintings but was not very well received when it was created. Morisot was unable to sell it and it stayed in the family, later passing to Blanche Portillon, the baby pictured. This painting represents a theme of motherhood Morisot tries for the first time here and presents itself frequently in her other work. Many value the simplicity of this painting, highlighting the bond between mother and child without needing distraction. The composition of this painting is also something to note as there are lots of diagonals in it. Between the mother and baby, the fabric of the cradle, and the top of the cradle to the mother. I find it strange that The Cradle is revered as one of Marisot’s best works though it was not popular at the time of creation.