Portrait of a Victorian Sunderland boy who was already on the Habitual Criminal’s Register.

I like the expression he shows of glaring out as though nobody in the world cares about him, his plea for being poverty stricken! Maybe he will 'pick a pocket or so'as he looks dressed to go out to the market! Youth is on his side though and maybe he might get a worth-while job selling apples with a barrow instead of pick-pocketing! Queen Victoria did reform Britain and lets trust this boy changed his ways! He looks like one of Oliver Twists friends too, the cap and those blue eyes, a lovely painting Michael of this boy!

Thanks Angela. It was inspired by my grandfather who was that boy, and man, in and out of Durham Prison. He was a thief and burglar, nothing to be proud of but when you look at his long list of previous convictions you can’t help thinking he was putting food on the table. True story.

Looks like he has only known hardship Michael, very well portrayed.

Dire poverty in Sunderland Carole. Yet, from a good family. I think they cast him out early.

It's a great looking portrait. You can see survival in those eyes.

Thanks Denise.

That looks says everything and, reading your story, it's very poignant too.

Portrait with attitude. Well done! Perhaps I should do a portrait of my murderous grandfather!

Thanks Heather and Linda.

A determined and resourceful looking lad Mick, and he did what he had to do to survive, how many of us would act any different if put to the test? It’s a super portrait with piercing blue eyes......did you inherit some of his wildness Mick?

Thanks Fiona. I didn’t meet him but from the stories I’ve heard I inherited his ‘differentness’.

Fascinating story and great character portrait Michael. And you were on the right side of the law! Good to see the changes in a few generations.

Superb as ever Michael Merry Christmas

The real criminals run the world Michael

Great expression in the eyes.

Thanks Tessa. Yes, I only found all this out a year or so ago. Thanks Dennis and Stephen. Great minds think alike Dennis. Mind you, he was naughty.

I love your portraits and accompanying anecdotes, that deliver more than meets the eye ....

Great portrait Michael.

Thank you Gudrun and Cesare.

Gorgeous painting