The artist knew that in classical mythology, the Fates are shown as women spinning the Thread of Life. This image of a mother knitting up the Thread of Life was well known to Francisco's audience.

The "medicinal" still life at left is carefully poised. The very careful balancing of glass, card, and spoon suggests the delicate equilibrium they hope these treatments will achieve. But the burned matches strike an ominous note, perhaps foretelling that the spark of life will soon be extinguished.

Pictured: J. Bond Francisco, The Sick Child, 1893, oil, 32 x 48 in., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Museum purchase.

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