The artwork titled “The Artist’s Mother, Mrs. Charles Peale and Her Grandchildren, Raphaelle, Angelica & Rembrandt” was created by the artist Charles Willson Peale in 1780. Painted using oil on canvas, this piece belongs to the Rococo art movement and represents the portrait genre. The artwork is currently housed in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, located in Philadelphia, PA, US.
In the artwork, Charles Willson Peale portrays a serene domestic scene featuring his mother, Mrs. Charles Peale, accompanied by her three grandchildren: Raphaelle, Angelica, and Rembrandt. The grandmother is positioned centrally, exuding a gentle and nurturing presence. Her expression is serene, her attire traditional, evoking a sense of warmth and familial love.
The grandchildren are depicted around her, showcasing a tender moment of familial interaction. One grandchild shows a sketch, likely indicative of artistic inclination, to the grandmother, while the other two children look on with soft expressions. The warm hues and delicate brushwork characteristic of Rococo style emphasize the emotional intimacy and affectionate bonds within the family. The composition, rich in detail and sentiment, captures the essence of maternal affection and the joys of family life in a bygone era.
