4. Thomas Lawrence, 1769-1830
Sarah Goodin Barrett Moulton: "Pinkie"

     Every Lawrence painting is a masterpiece. Perfect draftsmanship, exquisite subtlety of tone and color, deft and incisive brushwork — all portraying a concept invariably characterized by optimism and freshness. This charming portrait of a young lady posed against an imagined English countryside has long been one of the world's most beloved paintings. Every artist should study the edges in this picture — particularly how the edges of the figure relate to the background immediately behind. It cannot be done better.
     The contemporary painter is tempted to regard this superb portrait as a bit of a "cupcake." There is, at first glance, an element of idealistic prettiness about it. To take this position regarding Pinkie is to miss the sheer power of the painting's flawless artistry. No artist has ever touched canvas with such breathtaking assurance.

Huntington Library and Gallery, San Marino