Margaret Strachan (Mrs. Thomas Harwood)

"Margaret Strachan (Mrs. Thomas Harwood)" is a portrait painted by American artist Charles Willson Peale around 1771. The painting depicts Margaret Strachan, who was married to Thomas Harwood, a prominent figure in Maryland. Peale was known for his detailed and lifelike portraits, which often captured the social status and personality of his subjects. This work exemplifies Peale's skill in rendering fabric textures and the play of light on surfaces. The painting is significant for its representation of women in the 18th century and reflects the cultural values of the time. The current location of the painting is unknown.

"Margaret Strachan (Mrs. Thomas Harwood)" by Charles Willson Peale, created circa 1771, is an oil on canvas portrait that captures the subject in a three-quarter pose. The painting features Mrs. Harwood dressed in a white gown with a low neckline, adorned with a blue sash that drapes elegantly across her waist. Her dark hair is styled in a fashionable manner, with soft curls framing her face, which is rendered with a delicate and naturalistic approach. The background is a muted, dark tone that contrasts with the lighter colors of her attire, drawing attention to her figure. The use of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the subject, while Peale's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the textures of the fabric and the subtle expressions on her face. The composition is balanced and harmonious, reflecting the conventions of portraiture in the 18th century.