Open Your Mouth and Shut Your Eyes
1838
oil
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1838
oil
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
You see a young girl sitting at a table, looking hesitant. She's about to take a bite of something, but her eyes are closed. The scene is intimate and quiet. The girl's face shows a mix of fear and curiosity. This painting is interesting because it shows a moment of uncertainty. The title comes from an old nursery saying, which adds a layer of meaning. Check out the technique of glazing.