![James Gillray — Portrait of a Child [Master Lamb]](https://oldart.vernisio.com/archiv/James_Gillray/James_Gillray_Portrait_of_a_Child_Master_Lamb_1781_gross.jpg)
Portrait of a Child [Master Lamb]
Original title: Portrait of a Child [Master Lamb]
kurzbeschreibung
Dating from 1781, this child portrait by James Gillray presents a young child within an oval frame. Executed in soft-ground etching and rocker work, the sheet measures 27 x 20.3 cm. It shows a child seated upright, dressed in a lace gown and a wide-brimmed hat.
Description
Inside the oval frame, the child sits upright and looks directly at the viewer. A wide-brimmed hat decorated with flowers covers the head, and the dress features lace trimmings. Behind the figure, the contours of a piece of seating furniture can be made out. Below the portrait is a handwritten note with details about the work and artist. Extremely fine lines and shading keep the image in monochrome tones.
Context
At the start of his career, in 1781, James Gillray made this portrait, although he became known primarily for his caricatures. The Lamb family commissioned the work; it shows a child from a wealthy household. It thus takes its place in English portraiture of the late 18th century.
Impact
Calm and dignity emanate from the sheet, supported by even lighting and delicate lines. Because the child looks directly at the viewer, a familiar closeness arises. The oval frame follows the classical portrait convention of the period and enhances the formal character.
Technique
Soft-ground etching combined with rocker work allows soft, tonal gradations here. Fine, detailed lines bring out the surfaces of fabric and hat. The paper measures 27 x 20.3 cm.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)