232 "THE VISITOR"
by Arthur Hopkins (1848-1930)

The little girl has run all the way with her basket. What could be inside that has been so carefully covered with a clean cloth? Is it a freshly baked cake or could there be some raspberries for tea? The picture is provocative and leaves us guessing other things too.

The most intriguing is her face, purposely hidden from us by the artist to inspire imagination. For she must be the prettiest little child whose expression is probably poised in anticipation. We can all sense she will offer the most delightful smile when the door opens. But is anyone inside to hear her sudden arrival? And who's cottage is she visiting? Is it her grandmother's?

As she eagerly reaches for the knocker on this neglected but familiar rustic door, she seems to be carrying out a very important errand.

This little girl is the typical image of Victorian childhood, enthusiastic and domesticated. She is so appealing, rising on tiptoes with blonde hair falling under her black hood. Her dainty little hand stretches upwards; for just reaching the door knocker is a major achievement. Our little visitor is hoping that in moments she will be pleasing somebody. Their enthusiasm we can almost guarantee, will be more than she realises.

This painting stirs the imagination as we are fated never to see her face nor the reception at the open door. We shall always wonder just how pretty she is; who she is visiting or the nature of her errand. Like the linnet in the cage beneath the sweet smelling honeysuckle, we can but watch, wait and fantisise.

Arthur Hopkins RWS RBC. the brother of the Nineteenth Century poet Gerard Manley Hopkins, was educated at Lancing College in Sussex. After a few years of working in the City of London, he decided to opt out of corporate life and to take up art. He entered the Royal Academy Schools in 1872, exhibiting there from 1875 onwards. He painted portraits, figurative subjects, coastal but especially country scenes in the style of Helen Allingham. He also worked as an illustrator, contributing to The Graphic, Illustrated News and Punch.