Who painted Portrait of the Honorable Mrs. Beresford?

Portrait of the Honorable Mrs. Beresford was painted by George Romney in 1793.

Where can I see Portrait of the Honorable Mrs. Beresford?

Portrait of the Honorable Mrs. Beresford is held by Philadelphia Museum of Art.

What movement is Portrait of the Honorable Mrs. Beresford?

Portrait of the Honorable Mrs. Beresford is associated with Rococo painting.

Can I buy a print of Portrait of the Honorable Mrs. Beresford?

Museum-quality prints of Portrait of the Honorable Mrs. Beresford are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Portrait of the Honorable Mrs. Beresford

George Romney , 1793

Portrait of the Honorable Mrs. Beresford is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist George Romney. It dates from 1793 and is held in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Portrait of the Honorable Mrs.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of the Honorable Mrs. Beresford is an 1793 oil painting by George Romney, a prominent English artist of the late 18th century. The work is part of the Philadelphia Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Barbara Montgomery, known as Mrs. Beresford, a figure of high society. Her elegant attire—a white dress with ruffled collar and blue sash—and dark, curly hairstyle convey refinement and elegance. Her subtly directed gaze to the left adds depth to the composition.

Technique & Style

Executed in the Rococo style, the painting utilizes chiaroscuro to create depth, focusing attention on the subject's face and upper body. The dark background, with hints of blue and brown, contrasts with the subject's attire, enhancing the overall sense of dimensionality.

History & Provenance

Created in 1793, the painting is characteristic of Romney's frequent depictions of prominent society figures, reflecting his status as the most fashionable artist of his time. It is now held in the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

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Artist & collection

Artist

George Romney

George Romney (26 December 1734 – 15 November 1802) was an English painter. He was the most fashionable artist of his day, painting many leading society figures – including his artistic muse, Emma Hamilton, mistress of Lord Nelson.