Who painted Lisabetta?

Lisabetta was painted by James McArdell in 1752.

Where can I see Lisabetta?

Lisabetta is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Lisabetta?

Lisabetta is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Lisabetta

James McArdell , 1752

Lisabetta is a print by the Baroque artist James McArdell. It dates from 1752 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Lisabetta is a mezzotint print executed by Irish engraver James McArdell around 1752. McArdell, who worked in London, was celebrated for his skill in the mezzotint technique, particularly in portraiture. The print is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection and exemplifies the delicate tonal range achievable in the medium during the mid‑18th century.

Subject & Meaning

The image presents a seated woman with crossed legs, one arm resting on her knee and the other draped over a chair back. Her attire is loosely gathered, exposing one shoulder, while her dark hair falls loosely across her face. The contemplative expression and intimate pose suggest a private, perhaps informal, moment captured by the artist.

Technique & Style

McArdell employs chiaroscuro through the mezzotint process, creating pronounced contrasts between illuminated areas and deep shadows. The gradations of tone model the folds of the dress and the curvature of the figure, giving a three‑dimensional sense to the cloth and skin against a uniformly dark background. This manipulation of light underscores the work’s atmospheric quality.

History & Provenance

Created during McArdell’s early London period, Lisabetta reflects his growing reputation as a leading mezzotint portraitist. The print entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s holdings at an unspecified date, where it remains a representative example of mid‑century British printmaking and McArdell’s contribution to the medium.

Artist & collection

Artist

James McArdell

James MacArdell (c. 1729 – 2 June 1765) was an Irish mezzotinter who moved to London, there he was considered one of the finest mezzotint engravers in the country. He engraved portraits of many of the famous people of his time.