Child seated on the knee of a soldier
1850
watercolor
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1850
watercolor
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
Child seated on the knee of a soldier is a 1850 watercolor by Hippolyte Bellangé, a Realism work, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.
A soldier sits with a young child on his knee. His uniform’s red cap and blue coat stand out against the simple room. The child reaches toward the soldier’s pipe while the soldier holds a small book. Bellangé often painted military life. He trained under Baron Gros, known for battle scenes. This watercolor shows a quiet moment, not war, but rest. Look for more by Bellangé, Hippolyte.