On the Shores of Bognor Regis – Portrait Group of the Harford Couple and their Children Alexander M. Rossi (1840-1916)

The composition presents a scene of leisure on a sandy beach, likely depicting a family outing during the late nineteenth century. A group of individuals, presumably a couple and their children, are arranged across the foreground and middle ground, while the background establishes a coastal setting with a distant sailing vessel.
Here we see a clear division in activity levels. Several children are engaged in playful pursuits – one boy lies prone on the sand, seemingly observing his surroundings, while others stand or sit nearby, some holding small objects that might be toys or collected shells. A sense of carefree enjoyment permeates their actions. The arrangement suggests a deliberate attempt to capture a moment of familial bonding and recreation.
The adults are positioned in a more formal manner. The woman is seated on a folding chair, her posture suggesting both relaxation and a degree of social propriety. She holds what appears to be a small plate or tray, possibly containing refreshments. A man stands beside her, holding an umbrella to shield them from the sun; his stance conveys a protective role within the family dynamic. Another gentleman sits on a raised wooden structure at the right edge of the canvas, observing the scene with a detached air.
The artist’s use of light and color contributes significantly to the overall impression. The sandy beach is bathed in warm sunlight, creating highlights and shadows that define form and texture. The clothing worn by the figures – primarily white dresses and light-colored suits – reflects the fashion of the period and reinforces a sense of affluence and leisure.
The placement of the wooden structure along the right side creates a visual barrier between the family group and the distant seascape, subtly emphasizing their separation from the wider world. This could be interpreted as a commentary on class distinctions or the desire for privacy within a public space. The inclusion of scattered flowers in the foreground adds a touch of natural beauty to the scene, softening the edges of the composition and contributing to an atmosphere of idyllic tranquility.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of family, social status, and leisure time during a period of significant societal change. It offers a glimpse into the lives of a privileged class enjoying the burgeoning opportunities for recreation afforded by increased industrialization and disposable income.