Thomas 1748

"Thomas," painted in 1748 by Joshua Reynolds, showcases the artist's early style. The portrait depicts three children, likely siblings, in a pastoral setting. The boy in the foreground, likely the titular Thomas, kneels and gazes at the viewer. The girl stands gracefully, while her older brother stands apart, holding a book. This composition is typical of Reynolds's early portraits, and the natural light and simple landscape setting evoke a sense of innocence and gentility, which were highly prized during the 18th century.