The artwork, painted in 1783 by George Romney, is a portrait featuring Frances Bankes, Lady Brownlow, alongside her son, The Honourable John Cust, who would later become the 1st Earl Brownlow. This piece is situated within the Rococo art movement, an era that often highlighted ornate and decorative features, although Romney’s subtler style is also reflective of the transition to neoclassicism. As a genre, this work is a formal portrait, capturing both the familial bond and the social status of its subjects.
In the artwork, Lady Brownlow is presented with an air of refined elegance, her gaze directed outwards, engaging with the viewer. She wears a dark brown dress adorned with detailed embellishment, showcasing the fashion of the time, and her hair is styled high with soft curls framing her face. Her countenance exhibits a gentle composure, indicative of her status and position.
Beside her, the young John Cust displays a youthful innocence. His attire is a stark contrast to his mother’s, with a simple white garment reflecting the purity associated with childhood. His cheeks are rosy, and he seems to be leaning on his mother with a sense of closeness and dependence. The young boy’s eyes evoke a sense of curiosity and openness, complementing his mother’s more reserved demeanor.
Their placement within the frame implies a connection between the two, reinforced by a tender, protective gesture of Lady Brownlow’s hand upon her son’s arm. This interaction highlights the theme of maternal affection and noble lineage.
The background of the artwork offers a landscape with a suggestion of expansive skies, adding to the regal air of the portrait’s subjects. The darker tones used for the apparel and backdrop are balanced with lighter touches, such as on the subjects’ faces and in the details of Lady Brownlow’s dress, creating a visual harmony that draws the focus towards the figures themselves.