Artwork
Portrait of Sukey, Lady Oglander, née Serle
Portrait of Sukey, Lady Oglander, née Serle is an unspecified portrait miniature by the Rococo painting artist John Smart. It dates from 1774 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This portrait miniature depicts a woman in a white dress with a blue sash, her powdered hair and pink cheeks rendered in precise detail.
About this work
Overview
This portrait miniature depicts a woman in a white dress with a blue sash, her powdered hair and pink cheeks rendered in precise detail. The artist, John Smart, was known for his small, delicate works.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter is Sukey, Lady Oglander, née Serle. Her identity was lost at some point, leading to the assignment of a fictitious title, 'Duchess of Bourbon', before being rediscovered when inscriptions on the back of the miniature were uncovered.
Technique & Style
The miniature is characterized by its small scale and meticulous execution, employing a style that emphasizes subtlety and detail. The softening of edges, reminiscent of the sfumato technique, contributes to the smooth appearance of the subject's face.
History & Provenance
The portrait descended through the Smirke family after being given to Mary Smirke by the artist's daughter, Sarah. It was likely part of a sketchbook that was broken up and sold at auction in 1928.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Smart (1 May 1741 – 1 May 1811) was an English painter who specialised in portrait miniatures. He was a contemporary of Richard Cosway, George Engleheart, William Wood and Richard Crosse.
