Artwork

Portrait of the Willett Children

Portrait of the Willett Children, by George Romney, oil, 1796
Portrait of the Willett Children, by George Romney, oil, 1796

Portrait of the Willett Children is an oil painting by George Romney. It dates from 1796 and is held in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Portrait of the Willett Children is a 1796 oil painting by George Romney, a prominent English portraitist. It is part of the Philadelphia Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts three children: Annabella, Henry Ralph, and John Willett Willett. The subjects are shown in formal attire, with the boy standing in a red coat and the two girls seated together on a bench, holding hands.

Technique & Style

Romney's use of oil paint captures the softness of the girls' faces and the detail of the boy's red coat, including its shiny buttons. The dark background, with hints of trees, provides a subtle contrast to the children's clothing.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Romney

Artist

George Romney

George Romney (26 December 1734 – 15 November 1802) was an English painter. He was the most fashionable artist of his day, painting many leading society figures – including his artistic muse, Emma Hamilton, mistress of Lord Nelson.