Henry James William Ward, Son of the Artist 

James Ward, an artist known for his paintings of animals and rural life, created this watercolor sketch of his son Henry James William Ward. Ward lived through a period of radical change in England, from the agrarian world to the industrial revolution, and he witnessed new social structures emerging. In the image, the young boy is depicted wearing a red hat and a simple white dress, with soft, cherubic features. There is an undeniable tenderness in the way Ward captures his son's gaze. As a father, Ward was part of the changing attitudes towards children and childhood that emerged in the late 18th century. Instead of being seen as miniature adults, children began to be regarded as innocent and precious beings. Ward's sketch then, is a demonstration of the emotional connection between parent and child. A touching portrayal of youthful innocence and familial affection that touches on the changing social values around family and childhood in his time.