Heads of Angels; Miss Frances Gordon 1786 - 1787

Joshua Reynolds painted Heads of Angels around 1787, likely in oil on canvas. In this study, Reynolds depicts five different views of the head of Miss Frances Gordon, daughter of Lord Gordon, as cherubic angels. Reynolds was a leading portrait painter in 18th century England, a time when art was deeply entwined with social status. This piece reflects both the conventions of its time and Reynolds's own artistic choices. The cherubic figures embody a classical ideal of innocence and beauty, yet the use of a real child model adds an element of individuality. Reynolds was known for his ability to capture the character and emotion of his sitters, and here, he portrays Frances Gordon with a tender, almost maternal gaze, despite her youth. The painting encourages a dialogue between the ideal and the real. Reynolds’s ‘Angels’ reflects the societal values placed on purity and innocence, particularly in young girls, while also showcasing his skill in elevating portraiture to a higher, more allegorical plane.