What innovative technique is Thomas Gainsborough recognized for?

Thomas Gainsborough is recognized for his innovative use of feathery brushwork and the application of rich color in his portrait and landscape paintings. This technique allowed him to create a sense of liveliness and realism in his subjects, which was particularly effective in capturing the texture of skin and the play of light across various surfaces. Gainsborough's distinctive style marked a departure from the more rigid and formal techniques of his predecessors, enabling a softer and more spontaneous representation of figures and nature.

His ability to manipulate brushstrokes to simulate the qualities of light and texture contributed significantly to the emotional depth of his works. Gainsborough's approach is evident in many of his renowned pieces, where the blending of colors and playful brushwork brings a dynamic quality to his subjects. This innovation played a crucial role in shaping the evolution of portrait and landscape painting in the 18th century, influencing many artists who followed.