Fox captures both the essence of suffering and of kindness. Someone cares enough to render simple aid like fluffing a pillow, so this convalescent knows she is not alone. By her expression we understand that she still suffers, but at least not in complete isolation,

Convalescent (1890). Emanuel Phillips Fox

(Australian, 1865-1915)

Oil on canvas.

… Fox is among Australia’s most gifted colourists and figure painters. Celebrated for his painting of sunlight effects, he combined Impressionist-oriented vision with an academic training. Apart from portraits and landscapes, he mainly painted elegant female figures and family groups.

Source: books0977