Artwork
Portrait of a Woman
Portrait of a Woman is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist John Wollaston. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. This oil painting, created around 1750, is a representative work of the Rococo style in British North America.
About this work
Overview
This oil painting, created around 1750, is a representative work of the Rococo style in British North America. It is attributed to John Wollaston the Younger, an English portrait painter active in the colonies during the mid-18th century.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a seated woman dressed in a dark blue gown with a light underskirt, accessorized with a fan and a headpiece. The subject's attire and poised demeanor suggest a portrait of a member of the upper class.
Technique & Style
The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a striking contrast between the subject's dark clothing and her illuminated skin tone. Smooth brushstrokes contribute to a soft, luminous effect, characteristic of Wollaston's style and the Rococo aesthetic.
History & Provenance
The painting is now part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection. Created during Wollaston's period of activity in British North America, it exemplifies the artist's role in introducing English Rococo styles to the region.
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Artist & collection
Artist
John Wollaston (fl. 1742 – 1775) was an English painter who specialised in portrait painting and was active mostly in British North America. He was one of a handful of painters to introduce English Rococo styles of…
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