This is a fine example of Thomas Gotch’s large, semi-religious paintings on the theme of motherhood. The frontal composition, use of gold, and the halo-like effect above the mother’s head all have similarities with Italian 15th century religious paintings. Musicians and singers take the place of music-making angels found in religious art. Thomas Gotch lived among the artists of the Newlyn School in Cornwall for many years, but his approach had little in common with their open-air figure scenes.

Provenance: Purchased from the artist, 1910

Object description
Type: Easel painting
Location: Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Tyne & Wear
Material: Oil and gold on canvas
Artist: Thomas Cooper Gotch (1854-1931)
Date: 1784

Image Details
Date: 27 January 2024
Camera body: iPhone Xs
Lens: Wide Camera 26mm ƒ/1.8
Focal Length: 26mm
Aperture: ƒ/1.8
Shutter Speed: 1/50s
ISO: 250
Licensing: Image of a North East Museums asset. This image cannot be licensed.