Portrait of Thomas Coward

My name is Isabella, and I will be your guide today through one of our most impressive paintings: Portrait of Thomas Coward. nn Have you ever wondered what people wore a long, long time ago? This painting shows us what a fancy gentleman wore way back in the 1700s! Can you believe it was painted over 250 years ago? nn → nn Look closely at Mr. Coward. He's dressed in a bright red suit with shiny buttons. Do you think he's going to a party? His white collar and cuffs are extra fancy, too! His clothes tell us he was a very important man. nn → nn Mr. Coward is holding a book. Do you think he likes to read? He looks very serious and thoughtful, doesn't he? The painter wanted us to see how smart and important Mr. Coward was. nn → nn The painter used dark colors in the background so that we only focus on Mr. Coward. But look closely! Do you see the green curtain behind him? It helps us feel like Mr. Coward is sitting in a real room. nn → nn This amazing portrait helps us travel back in time! We can imagine what life was like for Mr. Coward and what was important to people who lived long ago. Isn't it amazing that a painting can tell us so much?