Le premier bain

Honoré Daumier

National Gallery of Art

This image shows two individuals - a man and a child. The man is kneeling in shallow water at the base of a flight of stairs, carrying the child on his shoulders. The child is holding onto the man's head, while the man supports the child with one hand. The man has a muscular build and a grimacing expression, short cropped hair, and is wearing a dark tank top and shorts. The child appears concerned, with curly hair and a dark outfit. The surroundings include steps leading out of the water, draped with nets. In the background, several figures watch from the sidelines. The setting looks like an indoor bathing facility with columns and high ceilings. The image has a sketchy style, suggesting movement and depth.