Lady Dashwood and Her Son

"Lady Dashwood and Her Son" is a portrait painted by Charles Howard Hodges around 1785. The work depicts Lady Dashwood, the wife of Sir James Dashwood, alongside her son. Hodges was known for his skill in capturing the likeness and character of his subjects, often employing a neoclassical style. The painting reflects the social status and familial connections of the Dashwood family during the late 18th century. The exact circumstances of the commission and the specific context of the portrait remain unknown. The painting is part of the collection at the National Portrait Gallery in London.

"Lady Dashwood and Her Son," created by Charles Howard Hodges around 1785, is an oil painting on paper that depicts a seated woman and her young son. The composition features Lady Dashwood in a fashionable gown, characterized by soft drapery and a delicate color palette, which includes pastel hues that enhance her graceful presence. She is portrayed with a serene expression, her gaze directed towards the viewer, conveying a sense of maternal warmth. The child, positioned on her lap, is dressed in period-appropriate attire, with a playful demeanor that contrasts with the calmness of his mother. The background is rendered with a subtle, indistinct landscape, allowing the figures to remain the focal point of the work. The use of light and shadow adds depth to the figures, while the overall composition reflects the ideals of portraiture during the late 18th century. The painting exemplifies Hodges' skill in capturing the intimate bond between mother and child, as well as his attention to detail in fabric and facial expressions.