The Mikveh by Marek Hausmann 🏛️ Currently on Museum Exhibition

The Mikveh is a captivating figurative oil painting on canvas (60×80 cm) belonging to the historical cycle Kaddish for Shtetl.

In The Mikveh, the composition reveals the humorous, mischievous side of the shtetl, where childhood curiosity invariably triumphed over strict traditional rules. This painting introduces a warm anecdotal note and an unpretentious smile to the entire series. We see two young Jewish boys who—balancing on a wooden crate—peer breathlessly through a small window into the ritual bathhouse.

Narrative and Expressive Glazing

The sharp contrast between the solemnity of the mitzvah and an innocent boyish prank animates the shtetl with the authentic energy of youth. This work is a vivid reminder that alongside prayer and rigorous customs, the old towns were filled with carefree joy, children’s laughter, and little secrets that brought rich color and life to the daily community.

The artwork was executed using Marek Hausmann’s signature multi-layered oil glazing technique, creating deep luminous undertones and soft transitions of light across the wooden architecture. You can explore more works from this cycle in our Kaddish for Shtetl gallery or view the artist’s international fine art portfolio on Saatchi Art.

Artwork details:

• Title: The Mikveh (Mykwa)

• Artist: Marek Hausmann

• Medium: Oil on canvas (Olej na płótnie, laserunek)[cite: 3]

• Dimensions: 60 × 80 cm[cite: 3]

• Cycle: Kaddish for Shtetl

• Authenticity: Signed by the artist, Certificate of Authenticity included