Artwork

A Portrait Study of Two Children in a Landscape (Reverse: Study of a Young Man in an Interior)

A Portrait Study of Two Children in a Landscape (Reverse: Study of a Young Man in an Interior) is an unspecified painting by Daniel Macnee. It dates from 1854 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.

About this work

Overview

This double-sided painting, created around 1854 by Scottish artist Daniel Macnee, features a portrait study on one side and a separate study on the reverse. The work is held in the Scottish National Gallery.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts two children in a landscape, with the younger child on the ground and the older on a rock behind. They wear old-fashioned clothing, with the younger in white and the older in red. The scene conveys serenity, with the children set against a backdrop of trees and water.

Technique & Style

Executed in a realistic style, the painting showcases attention to detail in the children's clothing and facial expressions. Earth tones dominate the palette, creating a muted color scheme that contributes to the overall tranquil atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Daniel Macnee, later knighted and president of the Royal Scottish Academy, created this work. The painting's reverse features a study of a young man in an interior, suggesting the artist's practice of utilizing both sides of a canvas for separate studies.

Artist & collection

Artist

Daniel Macnee

Sir Daniel Macnee FRSE PRSA LLD (4 June 1806, Fintry, Stirlingshire – 17 January 1882, Edinburgh), was a Scottish portrait painter who served as president of the Royal Scottish Academy (1876).