Artwork
Portrait of the Painter's Two Daughters

Portrait of the Painter's Two Daughters is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Thomas Gainsborough. It dates from 1758 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This 1758 oil painting by Thomas Gainsborough depicts his two daughters, Margaret and Mary. It exemplifies the Rococo style with its light color palette and fluid brushstrokes.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait shows two young girls, likely sisters, in a quiet, intimate moment. One girl looks directly at the viewer, while the other gazes away, creating a sense of private interaction.
Technique & Style
Gainsborough employed chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts between light and dark, to create a sense of depth and volume. The dark background highlights the girls' features and clothing, adding to the overall realism.
History & Provenance
Gainsborough was a prominent English painter of the 18th century, known for his portraits and landscapes. He favored landscapes later in his career, but this early work showcases his skill in capturing figures with delicate detail.
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas Gainsborough (; 14 May 1727 (baptised) – 2 August 1788) was an English painter, draughtsman and printmaker who specialised in portrait and landscape painting.



















