Artwork
Mrs Elrington (b.1800), Formerly Miss Charlotte Townshend
Mrs Elrington (b.1800), Formerly Miss Charlotte Townshend is an oil painting by Thomas Clement Thompson. It dates from 1827 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Thomas Clement Thompson, an Irish artist active in the early nineteenth century, painted this oil portrait around 1827. The work shows Charlotte Townshend, later known as Mrs. Elrington, seated in a chair and looking to her left. It is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum’s collection.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter is presented in a blue dress with a white ruffled collar and cuffs, accented by green buttons, her curly brown hair arranged in a short, tidy style. Her composed posture and understated expression convey a quiet confidence, while the deep red backdrop provides a contrasting setting that highlights her attire.
Technique & Style
Thompson employs chiaroscuro to model the figure, using light and shadow to give the portrait a three‑dimensional presence. The handling of the oil paint renders the textures of fabric and skin with subtle gradations, and the overall composition balances cool and warm tones for visual harmony.
History & Provenance
Originally a miniature portraitist in Belfast and Dublin, Thompson later moved to London, where he exhibited at the Royal Academy and established a studio for larger portraits. This painting, created during his mature period, reflects his transition from small‑scale work to full‑size oil portraits.
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas Clement Thompson (1780 – 11 February 1857) was an Irish artist and a founder member of the Royal Hibernian Academy.
Countess L.H.
Head of a Lady (after Thomas Lawrence)
Mrs. Daniel DeSaussure Bacot
Portrait of Lady Elizabeth Foster, later Duchess of Devonshire (1759-1824)
Laura Moubray, neé Hobson (born 1788)
Portrait of a Young Lady
Portrait of a Woman (Miss Frances Winnicobe ?)
Miss Foote
The Farewell
Miss Caroline Fry
Portrait of a Lady
Head of a Lady