Artwork Page for Portrait of Mary Wise

Details / Information for Portrait of Mary Wise

Portrait of Mary Wise

c. 1774

Thomas Gainsborough

(British, 1727–1788)
Culture
England, 18th century
Medium
oil on canvas
Measurements
Unframed: 76.2 x 63.6 cm (30 x 25 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
The Elisabeth Severance Prentiss Collection 1944.82
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
203B British Painting and Decorative Arts
Print
?

Did You Know?

The portrait shows Mary in her twenties, with her hair powdered fashionably grey.

Description

Mary’s modest and contemplative demeanor is a counterpoint to a rather elaborate ensemble consisting of a gown embroidered with gold flower sprigs, trimmed with lace and pearls, and tied with a gold sash, as well as a gold-striped veil and a bracelet with eight gold bands. Gainsborough’s compact oval format and the sitter’s informal pose lend this portrait an air of intimacy.
An oval oil painting depicts a woman with light skin tone, shoulders turned slightly to our left but looking out at us. Her right hand rests against her cheek, a wide gold bracelet on her wrist. She wears a white gown with gold embroidery and a row of pearls. Her dark hair is decorated with a gold band and sheer, gray veil. Dark red fabric drapes behind her against a dark background.

Portrait of Mary Wise

c. 1774

Thomas Gainsborough

(British, 1727–1788)
England, 18th century

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork