Pinkie facts for kids
Pinkie is a very famous painting from 1794. It was created by a talented artist named Thomas Lawrence. The painting shows a young girl named Sarah Barrett Moulton. She was born in 1783 in Jamaica. Sarah was known by her sweet nickname, "Pinkie."
This beautiful artwork is now kept at the Huntington Library in San Marino, California. It hangs close to another well-known painting called The Blue Boy, which was painted by Thomas Gainsborough. Both Pinkie and The Blue Boy have even appeared as background decorations in many episodes of the old television show, Leave It to Beaver.
Contents
The Story Behind Pinkie
This section tells you more about the young girl in the painting and why it was made.
Who Was Sarah Moulton?
Sarah Barrett Moulton was the girl who posed for the painting. She was born in 1783. Her family lived in Jamaica, where her father owned a large farm called a plantation. Sarah was given the nickname "Pinkie" by her family and friends.
Why Was the Painting Made?
The painting was ordered when Sarah was about to leave Jamaica. She was traveling to England to continue her education. It was a common practice for wealthy families to have portraits painted. This captured a moment in time, especially before a big change like moving to another country for school.
A Sad Ending
Sadly, Sarah Barrett Moulton passed away in 1795. This was only one year after the painting of her, Pinkie, was finished. She was very young when she died. The painting remains a lasting memory of her.
The Artist: Thomas Lawrence
Let's learn a bit about the artist who created Pinkie.
Lawrence's Life and Work
Thomas Lawrence was a very important British painter. He lived from 1769 to 1830. He was known for painting portraits of many famous and important people. These included kings, queens, and nobles. He became one of the most popular portrait artists of his time.
Lawrence's Style
Lawrence had a special way of painting. He made his subjects look very lively and elegant. He was good at showing their personalities. His paintings often had rich colors and smooth brushstrokes. Pinkie is a great example of his skill. He captured Sarah's youthful spirit and innocence.
Pinkie and The Blue Boy
These two paintings are often seen together. They have a special connection.
Two Famous Paintings Together
Pinkie and The Blue Boy are both very famous. They are displayed in the same room at the Huntington Library. Even though they were painted by different artists, they both show young people. They also use bright colors. This makes them look good side-by-side.
Why Are They So Popular?
Both paintings are loved by many people. They represent a time when portraits were a main form of art. They also show the beauty of childhood. Their fame grew even more when they were used in popular culture, like the TV show Leave It to Beaver. This made them recognizable to many families.
