Isabella Wolff

Sir Thomas Lawrence

Created:
Movement:
1803/15
Romanticism
key Notes:
Elegant portraiture, Romantic expression
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Dimensions:
128.2 × 102.4 cm (50 1/2 × 40 5/16 in.); Framed: 156.2 × 130.5 cm (61 1/2 × 51 3/8 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Isabella Wolff" is a portrait painted by Sir Thomas Lawrence, a prominent English portrait painter known for his ability to capture the character and personality of his subjects. The painting depicts Isabella Wolff, who was the daughter of a wealthy merchant and a notable figure in London society during the early 19th century. Lawrence's work is characterized by its vibrant color palette and dynamic brushwork, which contribute to the liveliness of the subject. The exact date of the painting's creation remains uncertain, but it is generally placed within the period of Lawrence's active career, which spanned from the late 18th century to the early 19th century. The portrait exemplifies Lawrence's skill in rendering fabric and texture, particularly in the depiction of clothing, which enhances the subject's social status. "Isabella Wolff" is part of a broader tradition of portraiture that reflects the cultural and social dynamics of its time, emphasizing the importance of individual identity and status in society. The painting is housed in a private collection, and its provenance includes various exhibitions and scholarly discussions that highlight Lawrence's contributions to British art.

Description of the work:

"Isabella Wolff" by Sir Thomas Lawrence is an oil on canvas portrait that exemplifies the artist's mastery in capturing the elegance and individuality of his subjects. The composition features Isabella Wolff in a three-quarter pose, which enhances her presence and engages the viewer. She is depicted wearing a delicate white gown adorned with subtle drapery, which conveys a sense of refinement and grace. The soft, luminous quality of the fabric contrasts with the darker background, allowing the figure to stand out prominently. Lawrence employs a warm color palette, utilizing soft pastels and rich tones to create a harmonious balance. The sitter's expression is serene and contemplative, characterized by a slight smile that suggests both confidence and poise. The artist's attention to detail is evident in the rendering of the sitter's hair, which is styled elegantly and frames her face. The use of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the figure, contributing to the overall sense of realism. The background is rendered with a subtle gradation of color, providing depth without detracting from the central figure. Overall, the painting reflects Lawrence's ability to convey both the physical likeness and the character of his subjects, establishing a connection between the viewer and the portrayed individual.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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Isabella Wolff