Curatorial Narrative Eugeen Van Mieghem’s “Rustende vluchtelingen” occupies a pivotal position in the trajectory of modern art, emerging at a critical juncture during World War I. Created between 1914 and 1918, this work exemplifies the artist’s unique ability to capture the human condition through subtle, nuanced means. The soft brushwork employed by Van Mieghem imbues the subjects with an air of quiet introspection, underscoring their emotional toll while avoiding overt sentimentality.In its enlarged format, measuring 58×44 inches, “Rustende vluchtelingen” reveals a sophisticated interplay between palette and spatial depth. The monochromatic sepia tones assume a heightened atmospheric weight, casting a somber glow across the composition. As the eye navigates this sombre landscape, it becomes apparent that the chromatic structure, though subdued, exerts a significant influence on the spatial rhythm of an interior environment. When