Artwork
The Synnot children

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.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
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.














