ROBERT MOUTREY

OIL PAINTER

London

The Family Portrait

Starting From £9000

A multi-figure portrait structured to balance individual likenesses within a unified composition.

The Nature of the Sitting

About The Family Portrait

The Family Portrait brings three or more sitters into a unified composition, balancing individual likeness with collective structure. Its strength lies in resolving relationships between figures while preserving clarity and presence.

Time is taken to understand the relationships between sitters — how they occupy space together, how posture and gesture interact, and how the overall structure carries a sense of balance. The aim is not simply to record who is present, but to establish how they belong within the same frame.

This format suits families seeking a lasting visual record, particularly for shared domestic settings or moments marking generational continuity.

The McGoverns Family Portrait
The Setting
Light, colour, and atmosphere
The Composition
Structure, story, and mood
The Pose
Comfort, posture, and expression
The Resolution
Bringing the work to rest

From First Sitting to Completion

The process of The Family Portrait

An initial group sitting establishes the overall composition and spatial relationships. Individual sittings follow, allowing each likeness to be developed with care.

Preparatory charcoal drawings and miniature colour studies are used to resolve proportion and tonal balance before the painting is fully realised in the studio.

Typical Structure

  • Initial group sitting
  • Individual sittings as required
  • Scale charcoal drawings
  • Miniature colour studies
  • Extended studio development
  • Custom handmade frame included
  • Studio or alternative location

Why This Scale

Choosing the Family Portrait

The Family Portrait is often selected when:

  • Multiple generations are to be represented
  • The work is intended as a lasting family record
  • A shared domestic space is its destination
  • Compositional presence is as important as individual likeness

 

It is structured to hold both identity and relationship in balance.

When Commissioned for Another

Gift A Portrait

This portrait is occasionally commissioned as a gift, particularly to mark significant milestones or personal occasions. Where discretion or timing is important, arrangements can be structured accordingly.

Framing, Studio & Location

portrait artist studio

A custom, handmade frame is included, chosen in consideration of scale and placement within the home.

Sittings may take place at the studio or at an alternative location, depending on the needs of the family and the intended composition.

Start Your Portrait Journey

Share your vision—each bespoke oil portrait begins with your story. Robert accepts only a select number of commissions each year, ensuring your portrait receives thoughtful care, focus, and craftsmanship. Take this first step towards a meaningful, lasting legacy.

Thinking About a Portrait Commission?

Download the 2026 Brochure

This complimentary brochure offers insight into the portrait process, the types of portraits available, and what it’s like to collaborate on a handcrafted oil painting. Save it for future reference or begin your portrait journey today.