The First BornFrederick William Elwell · 1913

Identification of The First Born

The First Born is an oil painting by Frederick William Elwell. Created in 1913, this work presents an intimate portrait of a young mother and child. The subject matter focuses on a young girl entering motherhood, depicted with a new-born babe folded in her arms.

Frederick William Elwell rendered the scene with a focus on domestic life. The composition centers on the physical connection between the mother and the infant. The painting captures a specific milestone through the depiction of the infant held against the woman's body.

Composition and Visual Elements

The composition centers on a domestic drama unfolding around a bed. A young mother is positioned within this interior setting, holding a newborn babe folded in her arms. The arrangement of the figures focuses on the physical connection between the mother and the child, emphasizing the subject matter of birth, family, and tenderness. The scene is characterized by a sense of optimism, fresh air, and sunlight, which permeates the immediate environment of the figures.

Light enters the space to create a specific atmosphere within the room. This illumination contributes to the overall feeling of the domestic scene, highlighting the interaction between the woman and the infant. The placement of the subjects within the frame directs the viewer's attention to the quiet intimacy of the maternal bond. The use of light and the arrangement of the figures establish a sense of calm within the private setting.

Where to See This Artwork Today

This oil painting is held by the Ferens Art Gallery. It is located in Hull, England. The work is a part of the Ferens Art Gallery collection, where it remains on display for public viewing. Visitors seeking to observe the physical canvas can find it within this specific institution.

The Ferens Art Gallery maintains the painting as part of its permanent holdings. It is situated in Hull, within the United Kingdom. The institution serves as the current repository for this specific piece by Frederick William Elwell.