Artwork

The Synnot children

The Synnot children, by Joseph Wright of Derby, oil, 1791
The Synnot children, by Joseph Wright of Derby, oil, 1791

The Synnot children is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Joseph Wright of Derby. It dates from 1791 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria.

About this work

Overview

The Synnot children is a portrait painted in 1791 by Joseph Wright of Derby, an English artist known for his work in portraiture and landscapes.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts three children, Marcus, Maria, and Walter Synnot, in a wooded setting, interacting with a bird and its cage, conveying an atmosphere of innocence and curiosity.

Technique & Style

The artist employed tenebrism and chiaroscuro to create strong contrasts between light and shadow, adding depth to the scene, while the overall style reflects the refined tendencies of the Rococo movement.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held in the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Joseph Wright of Derby

Artist

Joseph Wright of Derby

Joseph Wright (3 September 1734 – 29 August 1797), styled Joseph Wright of Derby, was an English painter who specialised in portrait painting and landscape art.