Portrait of George Venables Vernon, 2nd Lord Vernon 1767

Thomas Gainsborough painted this full-length portrait of George Venables Vernon, the 2nd Lord Vernon, sometime in the latter half of the 18th century. The artwork, now held at the Southampton City Art Gallery, presents Vernon in an informal, almost pastoral setting, which was not unusual for portraits of the landed gentry at the time. Vernon, depicted with his dog, represents the landed aristocracy, a class that derived its power and status from inherited wealth and land ownership. These individuals played a crucial role in shaping the social and political landscape of England. This portrait subtly communicates Vernon's power and privilege. The dog is a symbol of loyalty, class and the hunt, illustrating the lifestyle of the landed gentry and their deep connection to the land. Gainsborough offers us more than just a depiction of wealth; he provides a glimpse into the emotional and social values of the time. He captures something of the human condition amidst the trappings of status.