Expectation, ca. 1914

This drawing is a characteristic example of the large number of drawings that George Minne made in England during the First World War. He stayed in Wales, first in Aberystwyth then in Llanidloes. In Wales, the artist could not create any sculptures; during his exile he mainly drew. There are 389 drawings from this period in the museum's print room. The themes are limited to: the youth, the waiting figure, mother and child, the figure of Christ, especially the Eucharistic Christ. The drawings were executed in charcoal on paper, exceptionally also on panel. The size of the representations varies from small to more than life-size. During his exile in Wales, George Minne was burdened with the care of his three sons, who were soldiers. Waiting Woman' is a timeless representation of the waiting mother. The drawing is characterised by nervous lines and shows the restrained tension and anxiety about the news that might come. The theme of motherhood is often seized upon in art as a reflection of the parents' concern for their children.