In Mother and Children, Nancy Spero explores themes of motherhood, intimacy, and survival through a powerful image of a maternal figure. Using a technique she developed for her Black series, Spero applied black oil paint over a layer of gold oil and then rubbed it away with turpentine, creating ancient, textured effects. This technique was inspired by classical and ancient art, including the erotic wall paintings of Pompeii and the Etruscan Sarcophagus of the Spouses.

The subdued color palette and evocative composition amplify the emotional resonance of the work, emphasizing the connection between mother and child. This piece reflects Spero’s engagement with symbolic themes, such as those found in the Tarot’s The Lovers card, which represents intimacy, ritual, and human connection.