Artwork

Portrait of Samuel Pasfield as a Child wearing the Pasfield Jewel

Portrait of Samuel Pasfield as a Child wearing the Pasfield Jewel is a paint painting by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1661 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This portrait depicts Samuel Pasfield as a child, showcasing his attire and a notable jewel from the 17th century.

About this work

Overview

This portrait depicts Samuel Pasfield as a child, showcasing his attire and a notable jewel from the 17th century.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Samuel Pasfield, was the son of a merchant who traded with Barbados. The painting captures him between two to four years old, wearing typical clothing for his age, including a bodice, petticoats, and accessories like a bib and cap.

Technique & Style

The portrait features the use of chiaroscuro, a technique that utilizes strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume. Samuel's clothing, including a doublet with narrowly paned sleeves, reflects the fashion of the late 1650s or early 1660s.

Context

The 'Pasfield Jewel', an enamelled gold pistol-shaped whistle set with emeralds, is prominently displayed. This jewel, now in the museum's collection, is a rare surviving example of 17th-century jewelry due to the common practice of recycling precious materials.