The artwork named “Thomas Gisborne and His Wife Mary,” painted by Joseph Wright in 1786, is an oil on canvas portrait that belongs to the Rococo art movement. With the dimensions of 185.5 x 152.5 cm, this piece portrays its subjects with detailed realism and captures the essence of the period. It is housed at the Yale Center for British Art at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, United States.
In the artwork, Thomas Gisborne and his wife Mary are depicted seated in what appears to be a serene, natural outdoor setting. The couple is shown under the shade of an umbrella, with Thomas attired in formal clothing and Mary dressed in a sophisticated yet comfortable gown. They are seated close to one another, Mary holds an umbrella whilst leaning towards Thomas, which signifies a connection and intimacy between them. A loyal, gazing dog stands beside Thomas, further enhancing the sense of family and companionship depicted in the painting. The background showcases a lush, verdant landscape, with trees and greenery complementing the atmospheric depth and rich color palette typical of Wright’s style, reflecting the Rococo influence with its emphasis on elegance and elaborate detail.