This painting was acquired to show a very different type of garden, and their continuing role in the year’s special occasions. Little is known of the painting’s origin, although its layout and style suggest it was a commissioned illustration. The garden is unadorned and sits at the back of a terraced house. A few leafless trees silhouetted against a pink dusk sky provide the only hints of greenery. The enjoyment of the family is clear and demonstrates that gardens as a space for play and recreation are not entirely dependent on a set of green fingers. Purchased through the HLF Collecting Cultures fund. (Becky Wright, Curatorial Volunteer)
