Famous families have long since been set as an example of how domestic life and families should be conducted and displayed. The portraits were also meant to show off the rich lifestyle of the families who were the subject but also the symbolism of some portraits were meant to serve as propaganda for the country. By looking at portraits of families, some famous and others fictional, one can see trends in trying to create an idealized example of what domestic life, or how the family should be portrayed. Using Portraits from the 1400-1900, one can compare trends, themes and ideals through the centuries. When looking at the selection of works, take careful note of the different domestic activities taking place in each portrait. Notice the different positioning of family members and how they interact with each other, take note of any figure that appears to be the most important in the portrait and what ideals they are meant to convey to their audience.
