The roots of many contemporary attitudes surrounding children can be found in Georgian Britain . Nowhere is this change more evident than in family relationships, as the family came to be based for the first time on bonds of affection rather than economics. The child, once at the periphery, moved to the center of family affections. While there is much evidence that parents have always prized their children, Georgian Britain led the way in Europe to viewing childhood as a special phase of human existence. Artists themselves participated in this movement as both recorders of contemporary values and as activists promoting change.
Wider audiences come dramatically into play as well.
Collectively, these works of art played public and private roles central to the creation of a new view of the child. The exhibition, with selected images and introductions, is offered in 9 sections. For your study and enjoyment, the images are available in two sizes. To see an image in larger scale, click on it. The tour asks questions to begin discussion of the artworks and defines certain art terms for young people.