An example of Prince Albert’s patronage of promising young artists, this picture also illustrates the Victorian taste for images idealising rural life. The influence of Dutch seventeenth-century genre artists such as Frans van Mieris is clear. The picture was praised by contemporary critics, as much for the perceived personality of the girl as for its painterly qualities.

Purchased by Prince Albert and presented to Queen Victoria on her birthday, 24 May 1859

No. 67