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Infant, family, social status

Infant, family, social status
1765. «George Clive and his family with an Indian maid», Joshua Reynolds © Staatliche Museum (Berlin, Germany)
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Infant, family, social status

Prosperity and cultural symbolism permeate this group portrait by Reynolds. Lord George Clive was cousin of Robert Clive, founder of the empire of British India, and made his fortune at that land. Most beautifully painted is the centrally placed Indian nurse, who, kneeling, supports the little girl in Indian courtly attire. Clearly, the painter found the Indian’s depiction his greatest pleasure. The daughter born 1764, note that she is appears to be older due to the artist giving her excessively long legs for an infant, the style of dress, and long hair which may be artificial. The daughter is supported by the Indian maid, which is a common symbol for the support provided to the British Empire by its colonies. Note grouping of three females, away from male, in keeping with 18th century traditions. [Barry Bogin]