William Maw Egley, English, 1826-1916 – Just as the Twig Is Bent Philadelphia Museum of Art

The composition presents a domestic interior, rendered with meticulous detail characteristic of Victorian genre painting. A richly patterned crimson wallpaper dominates the background, punctuated by two heavy green drapes that flank the space and contribute to a sense of enclosure. Above the fireplace, a framed oval portrait hangs, its subject obscured but suggesting familial lineage or an idealized ancestor. The fireplace itself is ornate, with decorative carvings and a polished surface reflecting light.
Three figures occupy the foreground. A young girl sits at a small table covered with a striped cloth, absorbed in reading. Her posture suggests quiet concentration, her gaze directed downwards towards the book. To her right, another girl perches on a chair, her expression one of playful anticipation or perhaps mild mischief. She is adorned with ribbons and bows, emphasizing her youthfulness and innocence. Standing beside them is a young boy, dressed in what appears to be a military-inspired uniform, complete with a bicorne hat and a sword held casually at his side. His stance conveys an air of confidence and authority, though tempered by the overall domestic setting.
The floor covering is a patterned green carpet that unifies the scene visually. The lighting is soft and diffused, illuminating the figures and highlighting the textures of their clothing and the surrounding environment.
Subtleties within the painting suggest themes of childhood development and social conditioning. The title alludes to the formative years and the lasting impact of early experiences. The contrast between the girls’ studious demeanor and the boys military attire hints at differing expectations placed upon children based on gender. The presence of the portrait above the fireplace implies a connection to tradition and ancestry, suggesting that these young individuals are being prepared for their roles within a structured social hierarchy. The overall impression is one of carefully orchestrated domesticity, where childhood innocence intersects with the subtle pressures of societal expectation.