Caribbean family in Trafalgar Square

This painting, one of a pair, depicts a Caribbean family feeding pigeons in Trafalgar Square; the accompanying painting shows a group of Indian women at the same London landmark. Both paintings date from the 1950s, a period when debate about commonwealth immigration was at its height. The 1948 British Nationality Act extended citizenship rights to people in commonwealth countries and the first Windrush sailings took place in the same year.

In this painting a number of white people are included in the background. The juxtaposition suggests an inclusive and harmonious society, in which immigration is readily accepted. Feeding pigeons has been identified as an activity enjoyed by 'newcomers' to the capital: by implication, this family comprising two women, a man and a small girl, have newly arrived in the country.

There may be a subtle religious dimension to this work. Harold Deardon was a Christadelphian, believing in harmony between all Christian brethren.