Portrait of Sidney Hall with Lilly and Patti Tyson reveals Wood's deftness in capturing both the innocence of childhood and the nuances of social dynamics in mid-19th century America. The thoughtful composition features Sidney Hall, a young and free Black servant, who presents a platter of delicately wrapped chocolate pastries to her employers' children, emphasising the interplay of race and class within the familial setting. 

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The painting is notable not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its historical context. The Tyson family, prominent Quakers and abolitionists, held progressive views on race in an era fraught with tensions over slavery. This backdrop enriches the narrative of the artwork, as it showcases the complexities of relationships within the household, particularly the significance of Sidney's role. 

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This piece serves as a visual document of the era, reflecting the values of a family committed to racial equality. Wood's work thus stands as a testament to the evolving social landscape of 19th-century America. 

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Winterthur acquires painting depicting a free Black woman in pre-Civil War Maryland.

Available at https://www.winterthur.org/thomas-waterman-wood-painting/.