“The Peale Family,” an oil on canvas created by Charles Willson Peale in 1773, is a remarkable representation of the Rococo art movement, specifically categorized within the portrait genre. This artwork is housed at the New York Historical Society in New York City, NY, US.
In the artwork, the artist has vividly depicted a family gathering scene. The composition centers around several family members, including men, women, and children, exuding an intimate and warm atmosphere. The figures are adorned in period attire, reflecting the fashion of the late 18th century. A green-clothed table in the foreground holds a selection of fruit and a drawing, indicating a casual, familial setting enriched with personal and artistic elements. The backdrop features classic busts and an elaborate setting, adding a layer of sophistication and depth to the portrait. At the bottom-center, a dog gazes attentively upward, adding to the domestic charm of the scene. The artwork masterfully combines the familial intimacy with the grandeur characteristic of Rococo style through its detailed composition and rich, warm tones.
