Brothers & Sisters

This painting is entitled “Orphans” (Thomas Benjamin
Kennington, 1856 – 1916) but expresses something much more than what is depicted on the surface, the children’s current circumstances.


The older sister holds her little brother, his lovely face on her lap with an expression of confusion or perhaps he is deep in thought about what to do next…


The pretty sister, her eyes closed, is resting but feels comfort with her younger brother lying on her lap: she appears content, because at least, her brother is with her, her only friend.


At least they’re together despite being alone without care.


This painting has always brought forth strong emotion for me.


There is a friend of mine who has been bitterly disappointed with his parents and their actions and responsibilities. It is not appropriate to go into detail but, however unfortunately, he is estranged from them.


In spite of this, the man has maintained a meaningful relationship with is older sisters. He can call either of them anytime, yet they like each other and have wonderful conversations – they are very close.


Although not estranged from my mother, to have a close relationship with one’s sibling is something very special. My sister and I talk about everything and have been known to over indulge on the phone sometimes, talking for hours.


To have a close relationship with one’s sibling makes one stronger, that you are not alone, can talk openly and, in the end, merely be yourself without judgements, criticisms or the fear that doing something wrong will estrange them, because when you are close they will always forgive you.


The two children depicted in the painting will have that kind of relationship because they know, after years of hardship, that they can always, in good times or bad, count on each other.


This is a sad painting but also reveals the power of love.