Landscape with Milkmaid

1750s

Portraits pay the bills: the example of Hogarth

Gainsborough's main income comes from portraits; in this genre he tries to follow Hogarth, caring more about likeness than about conveying the sitter's social standing. Around 1753, probably, he receives a flattering commission for a portrait of Admiral Vernon, and he paints many members of his own family — for example a self-portrait of 1754 in a tricorn hat.

1752

The move to Ipswich

In 1752 Gainsborough, his wife and their two daughters, Mary (“Molly”) and Margaret (“Peggy”), move to Ipswich. Portrait commissions increase, but his clients are mostly local merchants and squires, and he has to borrow against his wife's annuity of £200, which the Duke of Beaufort had settled on her.

c. 1752 – 1759

The Ipswich Music Club

In Ipswich Gainsborough becomes a member of the Music Club, where he meets fellow music lovers and professional musicians; later he will paint portraits of some of them, and a group portrait of the club's members.

1758

A commission for portraits of the Earl of Jersey and his son

In December 1758 Gainsborough receives a commission for portraits of the Earl of Jersey and his son Lord Villiers. The portraits meet with approval and the painter's fame grows.