3-080-321 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

The Convalescent, 1875. With no antibiotics to stave off complications, a childish attack of 'flu might prove grave. Convalescence was achieved by many hours spent in loving nursing care and overnight vigil. Here, the little girl's condition appears to be improving and the flowers in her listless hand may be seen to symbolise her recovery, but also to suggest the transience and fragility of all forms of life.