Susannah, Philip Lake, and Maria Godsal: The Godsal Children

A spectacular setting sun, signifying the passage of time, becomes in Hoppner’s hands a metaphor for childhood transitions. The eldest girl affectionately coaxes her younger sister to enjoy the sunset, demonstrating her budding maternal nature. The confident pose and direct gaze of their brother, who at age four wears his first pair of masculine trousers, suggests his growing independence.