The Artist with her Daughter Beatrice
The sensitive subject depiction of The Artist and her Daughter Beatrice speaks to Emily Patrick’s early specialisation as a portrait painter. Many such works by the artist of this genre depict singular women in domestic semi-rural interiors, often sitting at a table and staring directly at the viewer. In this particular portrait, the artist is depicted with her daughter, Beatrice, who can also be recognised as a subject in other works by the artist.
The two entwined ropes framing the board echo the close hold between mother and baby, suggestive of their strong bond. Their unity appears defensive to the darkly ominous figures who surround the table. The artist’s alarming backwards stare contrasts to the strangely self-assured expression of Beatrice. Whilst the adults look in the same direction – perhaps registering a threat together – the child’s alternative focal point appears naĂ¯ve and vulnerable, ill-engaged with the apparent alarm.