Reverend Streynsham Master and his wife, Margaret of Croston, Lancashire Arthur William Devis (1712-1787)

The composition presents a formal portrait set within a domestic interior. A man and woman occupy the foreground, seated on chairs flanking a small table. The man, dressed in black clerical robes, sits rigidly upright, his gaze directed towards the viewer. Beside him, the woman is adorned in an elaborate blue gown, her posture more relaxed, with one hand gesturing delicately toward a sheet of paper resting on the table. A small brown dog rests at her feet, adding a touch of domesticity to the scene.
The room itself appears well-appointed, suggesting a comfortable and respectable social standing. Two framed portraits hang on the wall behind them, depicting what appear to be other members of their family or associates. These smaller portraits contribute to an impression of lineage and established connections. A window is visible in the background, offering a glimpse of a landscape beyond the immediate interior space. The curtain drawn partially across it creates a sense of enclosure while hinting at a wider world.
The arrangement of objects within the scene carries symbolic weight. The table serves as a central point, upon which are placed documents and personal items – potentially representing their roles in society or family affairs. The presence of the dog signifies loyalty and companionship. The woman’s gesture towards the paper suggests an engagement with written communication, perhaps alluding to her literacy or involvement in correspondence.
The color palette is dominated by dark tones – the mans black robes, the shadowed walls – contrasted against the vibrant blue of the woman’s gown. This contrast draws attention to her and emphasizes a sense of vitality within an otherwise formal setting. The lighting appears diffused, creating a soft atmosphere that softens the severity of the composition.
Subtly, the painting conveys notions of piety, social status, and familial connections. The formality of the poses and attire underscores their position within the community, while the domestic details – the dog, the table setting – humanize them and suggest a life beyond public duty. The inclusion of the portraits on the wall reinforces the idea of ancestry and legacy, implying that this couple is part of an ongoing narrative.