Portrait of Mrs Henry Ainslie (1761-1796)

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About the Art

Societal attitudes towards children shifted during the eighteenth century, with Britain leading the way. Childhood became considered a special phase of human existence that placed them at the center of a family's affections. This intimate portrait suggests the fleeting time of childhood as the young Henry (1786–1814) gently holds a fob watch. He was the first of eight children born to Agnes and Henry Ainslie, close friends of the artist.

Romney was among the finest of society portrait painters in his time, known for his ability to paint diaphanous white muslin, which is found in abundance here.

FEATURED IMAGE
George Romney (English, 1734­–1802), Portrait of Mrs Henry Ainslie (1761-1796), née Agnes Ford, with her son Henry (1786-1814), 1787, oil on canvas, 30 1/4 x 25 1/4 inches (76.7 x 64.2 cm). Museum purchase with funds from The Margie Mack Yowell Estate, 2016.16

Portrait of Mrs Henry Ainslie (1761-1796), George Romney