Solomon Abraham (London 1823-1862) – Not Guilty (acquitted) (63x88 cm) 1859 J. Paul Getty Museum

The composition presents a scene unfolding at what appears to be the exit of a courthouse or similar official building. A man, recently released from custody, is embraced by his family and greeted by onlookers. The central focus rests on this reunion; the man stands slightly forward, his posture conveying relief and exhaustion. He is enveloped in an emotional embrace by a woman, presumably his wife, who holds a baby close to her chest. A young girl clings to his arm, her face pressed against him in a gesture of profound affection.
The artist has skillfully employed light to emphasize the emotional core of the scene. The figures are bathed in a warm glow emanating from an unseen source, contrasting with the darker tones that dominate the background and frame the composition. This lighting draws attention to their faces, highlighting expressions of joy, relief, and tenderness. The woman’s face is particularly expressive, conveying both maternal warmth and evident anxiety.
Beyond the immediate family, a group of onlookers are visible. A woman in a simple dress stands beside them, holding a basket, her expression one of quiet compassion. An older man, likely a relative or friend, offers a paternalistic hand to the released man, his face etched with concern and perhaps a touch of pride.
The background reveals a bustling street scene, populated by numerous figures – some observing the event, others going about their daily lives. A lamppost illuminates the street, suggesting either early morning or late afternoon. The architecture visible in the distance indicates an urban setting, likely London based on stylistic cues. A crowd gathers further down the street, seemingly awaiting news of the trial’s outcome.
Subtleties within the painting suggest a narrative beyond the immediate reunion. The mans clothing appears somewhat worn and disheveled, hinting at hardship or imprisonment. The presence of the onlookers suggests that this event is not merely personal but has broader social significance. The composition implies themes of justice, redemption, and the importance of familial support in times of adversity. The artist’s choice to depict a working-class family underscores the human cost of legal proceedings and highlights the emotional toll on those involved, regardless of guilt or innocence. The overall effect is one of poignant realism, capturing a moment of profound personal significance within a larger social context.