3-065-946 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

"Expectation" by J. Israels, in the Royal Academy Exhibition, 1874. Engraving of a painting. 'This picture by Mr. Israels might at first sight be taken to represent a faithful home-staying wife and mother, awaiting the return of him upon whose conduct abroad depends the peace and comfort of their modest household. But a second glance and further consideration will reveal a different situation, which has not less interest or claim upon our feelings of tender and respectful sympathy for the experiences of virtuous womanhood. The cradle is as yet empty, and the little cap which she is making will fit a head unborn. Such is her sweet and sacred "expectation." Let up hope, too, that he, of whom we see and know nothing either good or bad, cherishes in manly love and the cheerful spirit of willing duty his share of the blessed burden soon to come upon them. In any case, the artist has earned such commendation as is due to a sincere effort to depict, with simple grace and truth of expression, one of the main features of human life. The figure is that of a Dutch fisherman's wife at Scheveningen'. From "Illustrated London News", 1874.