‘The Parish Clerk’ (Edward Orpin, Parish Clerk of Bradford-upon-Avon) c. 1760 - 1770

Editor: Gainsborough's portrait of ‘The Parish Clerk’ presents Edward Orpin bathed in light. It's a very serene depiction. What do you notice about the composition? Curator: The interplay of light and shadow is critical. Note how the diagonal shaft illuminates Orpin’s face, drawing our eye to his gaze. Gainsborough’s brushwork is loose yet precise, capturing texture and form. Observe the subtle gradations of color. What does that suggest to you? Editor: It feels like he's looking towards enlightenment, literally and figuratively. Thank you for pointing out those techniques! Curator: Indeed. The formal elements contribute to the sense of contemplative spirituality. I have new appreciation for Gainsborough's ability to convey character through pure form.