Artwork

Elizabeth Forbes, Mrs Colin Mackenzie of Portmore (died 1840)

Elizabeth Forbes, Mrs Colin Mackenzie of Portmore (died 1840), by Henry Raeburn, oil, 1805
Elizabeth Forbes, Mrs Colin Mackenzie of Portmore (died 1840), by Henry Raeburn, oil, 1805

Elizabeth Forbes, Mrs Colin Mackenzie of Portmore (died 1840) is an oil painting by Henry Raeburn. It dates from 1805 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.

About this work

Overview

This 1805 oil painting by Henry Raeburn is a portrait of Elizabeth Forbes, Mrs Colin Mackenzie of Portmore. It is held in the Scottish National Gallery.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Elizabeth Forbes seated in front of a tree, wearing a white dress and hat, with her hands folded in her lap. Her calm posture conveys serenity, while her blurred face subtly shifts the viewer's focus.

Technique & Style

Raeburn's use of chiaroscuro creates a dramatic effect, contrasting the subject's white dress with a dark background and highlighting her features through the interplay of light and shadow.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Henry Raeburn

Artist

Henry Raeburn

Sir Henry Raeburn (; 4 March 1756 – 8 July 1823) was a Scottish portrait painter. He served as Portrait Painter to King George IV in Scotland.