Feeding Time Phillip Richard Morris (1838-1902)

The composition presents a pastoral scene centered around a young girl and a group of turkeys in what appears to be a well-maintained garden or park setting. The artist has arranged the elements to create a sense of gentle movement and domestic tranquility.
Here we see a cluster of white turkeys, their plumage prominently displayed as they gather around the girl. Their postures suggest anticipation and eagerness, with several birds fanning their tail feathers in a display that is both comical and slightly regal. The girl, dressed in a light-colored dress with a dark apron and boots, stands at the periphery of this gathering, holding a basket presumably filled with food for the turkeys. Her gaze is directed towards them, conveying a mixture of tenderness and perhaps a touch of amusement.
The background establishes a sense of depth and enclosure. A weathered wooden bench sits beneath the shade of a large tree, hinting at a space for contemplation or rest. Dense foliage forms a backdrop, softening the edges of the scene and contributing to an overall feeling of seclusion. The ground is covered in fallen leaves, suggesting autumn and adding warmth to the color palette.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of childhood innocence, rural life, and the relationship between humans and animals. The girls interaction with the turkeys suggests a harmonious coexistence within a natural setting. Theres an underlying sense of privilege implied by the manicured landscape and the ease with which the child provides for the birds; it evokes a nostalgic view of a simpler, agrarian existence.
The artist’s use of light is significant. The scene appears bathed in soft, diffused sunlight, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This contributes to the overall feeling of serenity and reinforces the idyllic nature of the depicted moment. The careful rendering of textures – from the feathers of the turkeys to the rough bark of the trees – adds to the painting’s realism and invites close observation.