Arthur DEVIS
English 1712-1787
The Clavey family in their garden at Hampstead
1754
oil on canvas
124.5 x 99.0 cm
Everard Studley Miller Bequest 1975
E1-1976

Devis specialised in the so-called conversation piece, that is the depiction of informal gatherings of family or friends. These are social portraits where the sitters are defining and projecting their self perceived status through their attire and setting.
The Clavey family is seen in the corner of their garden overlooking Hampstead Heath. The scene is probably idealised and the pose of the figures somewhat stage-like. Devis was noted for the high quality of his depiction of fabrics and costume which contributes much to the richness of the scene. Clavey was a prominent and wealthy citizen, a true gentleman of the eighteenth-century, and is duly painted as such by Devis.