The picture above that I so adroitly manipulated (the applause is appreciated!) is from Thomas Gainsborough’s Mr and Mrs William Hallett. The man and woman are, of course, the aforementioned Halletts. I loved this picture when I first came across it–I don’t remember where. It has a haunting quality to it. The colors are slightly muted and misty. The brushwork, when you look closely, is slightly loose, almost impressionistic. Details around the edges disappear, especially in Mrs Hallett’s diaphanous gown. This creates a bit of mystery and allure. The subject itself is mundane enough. It’s a couple walking in a forest with their dog. The technique, however, and the slight pulling away of Mrs Hallett from Mr Hallett and the dog’s inquiring look. There are clouds piled in the background as well. No doubt this was commissioned by the Halletts, but Gainsborough made it more than just a simple double portrait.
Gainsborough is one of my favorite artists and the style of the 18th century is probably my favorite aesthetic. That contributes to why I love this painting so much.
I was lucky enough to see this hanging on the wall of the [British] National Gallery. Nothing could have made me happier.
Oh, and Mrs Hallett really DOES have a nice hat, doesn’t she?
