Edward Smith Stanley (1752–1834), Twelfth Earl of Derby, Elizabeth, Countess of Derby

Angelica Kauffmann's "Edward Smith Stanley (1752–1834), Twelfth Earl of Derby, Elizabeth, Countess of Derby" (1781)

Angelica Kauffmann's 1781 painting, "Edward Smith Stanley (1752–1834), Twelfth Earl of Derby, Elizabeth, Countess of Derby," exemplifies her mastery in portraiture, rendered in oil on canvas. Kauffmann, a prominent Swiss Neoclassical painter, was one of the founding members of the Royal Academy in London, a significant achievement for a woman in the 18th century. Her work is noted for its graceful composition and the subtle interplay of color and light, which are evident in this portrait. The painting captures the elegance and status of the Earl and Countess of Derby, reflecting the societal norms and fashion of the period. Kauffmann's ability to convey the personalities and social standing of her subjects contributed to her popularity among the European aristocracy. This work not only highlights her technical skill but also her role in shaping the visual culture of her time.

The painting "Edward Smith Stanley (1752–1834), Twelfth Earl of Derby, Elizabeth, Countess of Derby" by Angelica Kauffmann, created in 1781, is an oil on canvas work that exemplifies the Neoclassical style with its emphasis on clarity, order, and idealized forms. The artwork portrays the Earl and Countess of Derby, capturing their likeness with a refined elegance characteristic of Kauffmann's portraiture, and is part of the collection at Knowsley Hall in Merseyside, England.