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The editors of the book, Famous Paintings of the World, placed this picture beside the previous painting, Misery. They wanted to show the contrast between the pampered child and the child suffering from extreme neglect.
This scene might also be aptly called Happiness because it shows the most serene of surroundings. The little boy, dressed so fancily, seems to not have a care in the world, and indeed he probably doesn't. His every need is being met by a doting mother.
Note the richness of the clothing they are wearing. This child has been born into a family of wealth, and the waif in "Misery" had the misfortune to be born into poverty.
Look at the enlarged version.
Use your
Do you think the ornate hammock might have been handmade?
How are the child's shoes fastened?
Misery
The Knitting School
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