Artwork

Mrs. William Allen

Mrs. William Allen, by John Hesselius, oil, 1756
Mrs. William Allen, by John Hesselius, oil, 1756

Mrs. William Allen is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist John Hesselius. It dates from 1756 and is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts. The painting Mrs.

About this work

The painting depicts a woman in a red dress with white lace trim and a black bow at her waist.

The painting depicts a woman in a red dress with white lace trim and a black bow at her waist. She wears a white cap with lace edges, and her hands are clasped in front of her. The background is a dark brown color.

The woman's attire and hairstyle suggest a formal portrait from the 18th century. Her expression is serene, and her posture conveys a sense of elegance.

This portrait is a fine example of 18th-century American art, and to learn more about the artist's style and techniques, you can explore the works of John Hesselius.

Overview

The painting Mrs. William Allen is an oil on canvas portrait created by John Hesselius in 1756. It is part of the collection at the Detroit Institute of Arts.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts a woman, likely Mrs. William Allen, dressed in formal attire characteristic of 18th-century fashion. Her serene expression and elegant posture convey a sense of refinement.

Technique & Style

The subject is shown wearing a red dress with white lace trim and a black waist bow, with a white cap edged in lace. The dark brown background provides a subdued contrast to her formal clothing, highlighting the artist's attention to detail and use of color.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Hesselius

Artist

John Hesselius

John Hesselius was an American portrait painter who worked mostly in Virginia and Maryland.