The Strode Family

"The Strode Family" is an 1738 oil canvas portrait by William Hogarth, exemplifying a lively Rococo style. This conversation piece depicts merchant William Strode, his wife Lady Anne Cecil, his former tutor Arthur Smyth (later Archbishop of Dublin), a cousin Colonel Strode, and a servant pouring tea. The room's walls display Italian paintings, suggesting moments from a Grand Tour. The family’s wealth stemmed from the South Sea Company, and their social status is reinforced through their attire and surroundings. Today, it resides in Tate Britain, having transferred from the National Gallery in 1951.